Gregory Allen Markham

Gregory "Greg" Allen Markham, age 76, of Venice, Florida, formerly of Rochester, Minnesota, passed away on March 15, 2026.

Greg was born on January 29, 1950, in Rochester, Minnesota, to Charles "Ernie" and Carmen Markham. He graduated from Dover-Eyota High School and went on to earn both a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Education from Winona State University.

Greg began his career as a physical education teacher in the Rochester school district, where he brought energy, humor, and encouragement to countless students. Over time, he transitioned into carpentry, a trade that allowed him to pair skill with creativity. He went on to own and operate Markham Builders, building and remodeling both residential and commercial properties throughout the area. Notably, Greg built the home in Oronoco, Minnesota, where he raised his children, a lasting symbol of his craftsmanship and dedication to family.

Greg loved the outdoors and cherished time spent on fishing trips to Lake of the Woods and Lake Kabetogama in Minnesota, and Sioux Lookout in Ontario, Canada - trips filled with stories, laughter, and lifelong memories.

In a story that always made people smile, Greg reconnected in 2001 with his eighth-grade crush, Christine Kaehler, and the two were married in 2004, beginning a joyful chapter rooted in companionship and shared adventure. Together, they embraced retirement by spending summers in Minnesota and winters in Venice, Florida, enjoying time with friends, family, and one another.

An avid golfer, Greg especially loved the camaraderie of the game - time with his buddies and a beer on the "19th hole." One of his proudest accomplishments was achieving a hole-in-one on Hole 12 at Calusa Lakes Golf Course in Venice, Florida.

Greg will be remembered most for his humor and playful spirit. He loved telling one-liners, giving friends and family affectionate nicknames, and finding joy in everyday moments. His beloved "Greg-isms" included insisting things were "more gooder," replying that it was "good to be seen," and joking about trips to the fictional "Newport Jordanville" to pick up imaginary "wiggem-valves" for "spinoculators." Those closest to him were known by special nicknames, including "Teen Teen," "Boogaloo," "Moonbeam," and "Tweet."

Greg is survived by his wife, Christine Kaehler; his children, Braden Markham (Megan), Brooke Evjen (Skee), and Brittany Markham (Maureen Hogan); his grandchildren, Adelay, Sawyer, Sage, Chloe, Kai, and Dax; his brother, Chuck Markham (Kris), and sister, Vicki Compton (Mike); and many in-laws, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles "Ernie" and Carmen Markham.

Visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 p.m. on April 16, and again beginning at 10:00 a.m. on April 17, followed by a Memorial Service at 11:00 a.m., all at Ranfranz & Vine Funeral Homes (5421 Royal Pl NW, Rochester, MN). An Open House will follow from 1:00-5:00 p.m. at the Empire Event Center at Best Western Apache (1517 16th St SW, Rochester, MN).

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Markham family. To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com