Mark A. Klug

Mark Andrew Klug, age 78, died at home in Two Harbors, MN on July 17, 2026, from complications of primary progressive aphasia and post-polio syndrome.

Mark is survived by his wife of 37 years, Amy Church, and their daughter, Kelsey Klug. He is also survived by his siblings: Alice Aho, John Paul (Cindy) Klug, Martha (Tom) Hanson, and many nieces and nephews. Mark was preceded in death by his parents, John and Laverne Klug, his brother, Matthew Klug, and his brother-in-law, Robert Aho.

Mark was born on June 12, 1948, and grew up in Two Harbors, MN, graduating from Two Harbors High School in 1966. Other than a period of time working out West, he was a lifelong resident of Two Harbors until 2009 when he and Amy moved to Surprise, AZ, for 12 years before returning to Two Harbors in 2021. Mark was proud to be an enrolled member of the Bois Forte Band of Chippewa.

Although walking already, he contracted polio at 13 months old and despite a dire prognosis, his mother refused to believe he wouldn’t walk and run again. Thanks to many years of treatment at Gillette Children’s Hospital in St. Paul, MN, this proved true, including being a member of the high school swim team and a bicyclist. Both personally and professionally, he never let his polio mobility issues interfere with living his life to the fullest.

As a young man, he worked at times for the Army Corps of Engineers as a surveyor traveling throughout the western U.S. With the MN Highway Dept., he helped construct an early part of the ‘can of worms’ freeway system in Duluth, MN.

His primary career was in sales, first with Prudential for 8 years and then with Sonju Motors for 22 years, where he was their top salesman for many years. After retiring, he was the manager of the Two Harbors Campground for 3 years before moving to Arizona. He and Amy also owned the gift shop Silver Creek Gifts for 21 years until 2017.

Mark was a lifelong member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church, where he held multiple roles on the Church Council through the years. He was also a long-time member of the JayCees in the 1970s and 80s and was proud of projects to support the TH community.

Anyone who knew Mark knew he loved cars since he was a young boy – especially old cars like his 1946 Ford business coupe – and that he loved 60s music – often compiling playlists for dances and parties. Buddy Holly was his favorite! Dancing brought Mark and Amy together and their shared love of music and dancing continued throughout their years.

As a dad, he cherished his times with Kelsey as they shared so much fun and learning together. Making up childhood stories, playing swimming games, teaching her to drive, sharing his love of the oldies.

Growing up, he relished the time he got to spend in Blackduck, MN, at the family farm. As it did for many young boys, his love of westerns and old movies continued throughout his life.

Mark’s artistic talent is evident in the pottery he made when living in Arizona. Rekindling his grade school interest, his collection of unique vases, bowls, and platters are often used at home.

Mark was well-loved for his sense of humor and seemingly limitless storytelling. He was always willing to strike up a conversation with anyone, old friends and new faces alike. He loved being a dad and was devoted to his family and friends. His character, honesty, and strong friendships are often spoken of by those who knew him well.

Special thanks to Essentia Hospice staff, especially Nurse Steve and Solvay Hospice House, as well as Dr. Trevor Diercks at Aspirus Lakeview Clinic.

A memorial service will be held at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 601 Fourth Avenue, Two Harbors, MN, on Wednesday, July 29, at 2:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Boys & Girls Club of Bois Forte. Donate online at www.bgcboisforte.com or send check to 13090 Westley Drive, Nett Lake, MN, 55772.