Mark Willmert Death, Obituary Minneapolis, Minnesota – A Key Figure in Local Curling Community Passes Away: The Twin Cities Curling Association (TCCA) and the wider curling community are mourning the loss of Mark Willmert, a long-time member of the St. Paul Curling Club and a major driving force behind the growth of curling in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area. Mark’s unexpected death has left a significant void, as he was instrumental in shaping the local curling scene and fostering its expansion.
Mark Willmert’s contributions to the sport of curling in the Twin Cities are immeasurable. As a dedicated member of the St. Paul Curling Club, Mark saw the potential for curling to grow beyond its traditional boundaries. His vision led to the formation of the non-profit Twin Cities Curling Association and the Edina Curling Club, which, although short-lived, played a crucial role in expanding the sport to the western suburbs of the metro area.
Though the Edina Curling Club venture was not sustained, Mark’s determination kept the TCCA alive, allowing it to explore other avenues for curling’s expansion. His work was key in the creation of new curling clubs, including the Frogtown Club in St. Paul. Mark’s ability to connect different curling facilities and encourage cooperation among them led to the growth of the sport across the region.
One of Mark’s major legacies is the Big Spiel, which remains the primary financial driver for the TCCA, and the TCCA Cup, an annual event that brings together curling clubs from across the Twin Cities area for a year-end playoff. These events continue to thrive and serve as a testament to Mark’s dedication to the sport. A fierce competitor on the ice, Mark also achieved success at the state level, holding several Minnesota state club titles and participating in the Club National Championships.
His passion for curling was evident in everything he did, and his influence extended far beyond the local scene. Bob Hedstrom, a close friend and fellow curling enthusiast, shared a touching tribute to Mark, acknowledging his tireless efforts in promoting and developing the sport in the region. According to Hedstrom, Mark was not only a passionate advocate for curling but also a fierce competitor who deeply loved the game. Mark Willmert’s passing marks the end of an era for the local curling community.
His vision and leadership helped shape the growth of curling in the Twin Cities, and his impact will be felt for many years to come. As the community reflects on his legacy, they remember a man who dedicated his life to expanding opportunities for others to experience the sport he loved. Mark’s influence will continue to inspire curling enthusiasts in Minneapolis, St. Paul, and beyond. The Twin Cities curling community, along with all who knew him, will miss Mark’s passion and his commitment to the game. His contributions will never be forgotten, and his memory will continue to live on in the thriving curling scene he helped build.
