The news of Mark Deetjen’s passing has sent ripples of sorrow through both his local community in Chicago and the broader construction industry. Known as a highly respected concrete contractor and the driving force behind Premium Concrete, Mark was more than a skilled tradesman—he was a mentor, a friend, and a genuinely good human being.
Mark passed away while in San Diego, California, a city he had grown to love and frequently visited. The circumstances of his death have not been publicly shared, but the impact of his loss is already deeply felt by those who knew him.
Mark Deetjen wasn’t just in the business of pouring concrete—he was in the business of building trust, relationships, and community. Over the years, through countless projects and partnerships, he developed a reputation not just for high-quality craftsmanship, but for honesty, integrity, and a no-nonsense work ethic that everyone respected.
Friends and colleagues describe him as a man who could command a job site with confidence and care. He treated his workers like family and brought a quiet pride to his work that elevated everything he touched. You didn’t just get concrete when you hired Mark—you got commitment.
He brought precision to everything he did, but never lost sight of the people behind the projects. Whether on a commercial build or a small residential pour, Mark took the time to connect, to listen, and to deliver beyond expectations.
The grief shared by those who knew Mark is raw and heartfelt. His death wasn’t just the loss of a contractor—it was the loss of a cornerstone.
“Sad to post the passing of my friend Mark,” one close acquaintance shared online. “He wasn’t just a contractor. He was someone you could count on, someone who truly cared. May my friend Mark rest in peace.”
Mark leaves behind a wide circle of friends, coworkers, clients, and family who are struggling to come to terms with the suddenness of his passing. Many recall his hearty laugh, his dedication to doing things right the first time, and the quiet support he gave to those around him without ever asking for credit.
Though based in Chicago, Mark’s work can be seen across the Midwest—and his influence stretched even further. Contractors, suppliers, and tradespeople from across the country have expressed their condolences and shared memories of working alongside him.
He was a known figure at industry expos, always eager to learn, share techniques, and uphold the values of quality craftsmanship. The team at Premium Concrete, the company Mark built with sweat and vision, is expected to carry on his legacy, honoring the standards he set.
As the news of his passing continues to circulate, plans are underway for a memorial service in the Chicago area, where friends, family, and the many people whose lives he touched can gather to remember and honor a man who lived with purpose.