Bryan Thomas Markel

Bryan Thomas Markel age 50, from Green Lake, Wisconsin, passed away on Saturday, August 22, 2026 at UW Health University Hospital. 

Bryan was born on September 26, 1975, in Indiana, son of Thomas and Wendy (Silvernail) Markel. He was a graduate of Lawrence Central High School, Indianapolis, Indiana. After graduation, he enlisted in the Navy. 

From a young age, Bryan showed dedication and talent in sports. He played soccer from the age of 4 to 18. Achieving the Pre- Olympic level and a national ranking as a goalkeeper. Bryan's calling in life was to be a Firefighter and he served in that role for 25 years in the surrounding area. He found great satisfaction in training other firefighters and being involved in the Young Cadet Program. Among many of his certifications; he was a certified diver; a member of the HazMat Team & received his credentials as a Fire Inspector. Bryan retired as a Battalion Captain. Bryan also worked as a Professional Chef and enjoyed sharing his talent for cooking with everyone. He worked for ACE Hardware, where he made many lifelong friends. And, most recently for USIC as a utility locator.

 Bryan cherished his role as Dad. He loved playing with his children and grandchildren. Supporting them in all their sports and musical activities kept him very busy. His favorite place was at the campground with his family. 

Bryan was united in marriage to Renee Van Ornum on October 19, 2024 in Door County. Bryan was also a member of Peace Lutheran Church in Green Lake.

 Bryan is survived by his wife, Renee Markel, his five children, Madelynne, Bryanna, Oliver, Amaya and Lorelei Markel, his two grandchildren Mia and Emiliano, his brother Benjamin (Amber) Markel, his nephew, Peyton Markel, his parents Wendy Markel and Thomas (Carol) Markel and his Aunt Diana Reglein and Uncle Jim (Becky) Silvernail. And further survived by his step-children, nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives and many friends. 

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Charles and Olga Silvernail, his paternal grandparents, Lee and Betty Markel and his uncle, William Reglein. A visitation will be held Saturday, September 5, 2026 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Peace Lutheran Church, 440 Lake Street, Green Lake, Wisconsin, 54941. 

A Memorial Service will follow at 11:00 a.m. at church with Pastor Nicholas Haasch officiating.