Remembering Mark Kralj
June 2, 1955 – October 1, 2024
It is with great sadness we share the news of our colleague and friend Mark Kralj, who left this world suddenly due to a health event at his home. As our employees process this unexpected loss, our thoughts are with his wife Kathy and their children and grandchildren.
Mark Kralj at Ferguson Wellman in 2014, taken by Mt. Hood Community College
Mark retired in 2017 after 28 years with us, 21 of which he served on our board of directors. He left an indelible mark on Ferguson Wellman and was particularly impactful in fostering our firm’s growth throughout the Pacific Northwest.
Prior to joining Ferguson Wellman in 1989, Mark spent 10 years as a portfolio manager at First Interstate Bank. He started his college education at Mt. Hood Community College and received a business degree at Oregon State University. He also completed Portland State University’s Master of Taxation program and attended the Pacific Coast Banking School.
Mark was an analyst following the energy sector for our investment team and managed assets for multigenerational families and nonprofits. He spent considerable time in Bend, Boise, Medford, Roseburg and Vancouver where he substantially grew our firm’s presence and engagement.
Mark elevated our reputation for community service in a meaningful way. He was known for volunteering at a charity providing food and clothing to families in East County and organizations supporting children and adults living with disabilities. He also gave generously to many causes that were important to him and his family.
In addition to volunteering, he served on over 20 boards and committees over the years: American Red Cross – Oregon Trail Chapter, Arlington Club, Association for Portland Progress, Austin Family Business Program, Boy Scouts of America, CFA Society of Portland, Community Foundation for Southwest Washington, Easter Seals, Franciscan Montessori Earth School, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, The Grotto, Junior Achievement, LaSalle High School Foundation, March of Dimes -- Lewis & Clark Chapter, National American Red Cross Endowment Fund, Oregon State University Foundation, Oregon State University Cascades Campus, Oregon Symphony Foundation, Providence Child Center Foundation Member, St. Vincent Hospital Foundation and United Way of the Columbia-Willamette.
As we reflect on this loss, we will remember his incredible work ethic, devotion to clients and belief that giving back is the true measure of success. He will be missed.
More Reflections on Mark Kralj