Mark Cortner

1950-2022

Mark Owen Cortner, 71, died Thursday, August 11, 2022, at home surrounded by his loved ones. He was born November 5, 1950, in St. Louis, Missouri, the firstborn son of Dr. Robert and Theresa Cortner. He married Nancy Brown in January 1984 in Magdalena, N.M.

Mark was a cowboy, always the farmer and rancher until the very end. He moved to Datil, NM in 1983 to work on a ranch, not long after he met Nancy and moved to Magdalena. Mark was a man of many jobs and places where he hung his hat, but even when he was not living there, Magdalena was always home.

He is survived by his wife of almost 39 years, Nancy, his son, Owen Cortner (Michelle) and daughter, Claire Montoya (Andres), and his greatest joys, his grandchildren, Levi and Baylor Montoya. He is also survived by four aunts, three uncles, three sisters, two brothers, three brothers-in-law and many extended family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his uncle Paul and his uncle Lloyd, who was his greatest role model and friend throughout his life.

Besides spending time with his family and friends, Mark had a passion for animals, traveling, reading and hunting. He did everything with a faithful dog by his side. He was steadfastly committed to conservation and sustainable and humane agriculture. Those that knew him will remember Mark as quite the talker who always wanted to catch up on old stories. He was always willing to learn something new and pass along his wisdom to others.

A Memorial Service was held at the Magdalena Community Church, on August 17 at noon, followed by a Celebration of Life gathering at the Magdalena Warehouse. Burial was in the Magdalena Community Cemetery. Arrangements are under the care of La Paz-Graham Funeral Home of Las Cruces.