Mark F. Vincel, 72 peacefully passed away from an extended illness on Monday, September 21, 2026 in his home. He was surrounded by his family who loved him dearly as he peacefully left his earthly body to go home with Jesus. He leaves behind a life of faith, adventure, service and a deep love for his family and friends.

Mark was born on September 27, 1953 in St. Louis, Missouri. He lived in St. Louis and attended Concordia Lutheran School until 1964. His father had developed a love for the Ozarks with its many lakes, rivers and hunting opportunities, so he moved his family to Springfield and started a business, Vincel Buick. He entered 5th grade at Wilder Elementary and then attended Pershing Jr. High and Glendale High School where he excelled at football.

Mark began working at his father’s dealership on St. Louis Street when he was about 14. He worked in the car business for 42 years. He was a real people person and enjoyed being able to meet and visit with so many people at the dealership.

He met his loving wife, Carla Jo, in 1979 and they were married at Redeemer Lutheran Church in 1983. They were blessed with two children and two grandchildren, Finnley and Victor. He dearly loved them both and cherished every moment he spent with them.

He loved music. He played the organ and accordion.

He was a member of the Rotary Club of Springfield Southeast. As a member for 34 years, he played an integral part at each meeting by serving on the House Committee for many of those years.

He attended Wesley United Methodist Church for many years where his faith grew stronger and his belief in Jesus became an important part of his life.

Mark was always making sure that everyone else’s needs were met before his own. Always there to lend a helping hand to a neighbor or a friend. He made an effort to be honest and upfront when dealing with any situation.

His greatest passion was being outdoors and exploring nature with his family and “life time” friends. He loved floating, fishing, camping, knives, mountain and rock climbing, exploring caves and star gazing.

Often referred to as “Mark of the Ozarks”, our beloved Mark will be remembered by his love for helping others, and being a dedicated husband, father, papa and friend.

Survivors include his wife, Carla Jo (Smith) Vincel; son, Chase Vincel; daughter, Whitney Vincel; grandchildren, Finnley and Victor Vincel; brothers, Mack Vincel and wife, April, and Bob Vincel and wife, Ann; sister-in-law, Cathryn Vincel; six nephews; two nieces; several great-nieces and nephews as well as many beloved cousins and friends.

Funeral services will be Friday, September 25, 2026 at 11:00 AM at Gorman Scharpf Funeral Home with burial to follow in Hazelwood Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday from 5-7 PM at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to the Humane Society of Southwest Missouri, 3161 W. Norton Road, Springfield, Missouri 65803.