Mark A. Kula

Mark A. Kula, age 67, passed away surrounded by family. Funeral Services will be at 11AM on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at Apfel Funeral Home in Grand Island with Derek Apfel, CFC officiating. Burial will follow in the Grand Island City Cemetery. Visitation will be on Wednesday from 5-7PM at the funeral home. Memorials can be sent to the National Law Enforcement Memorial or to a Local Animal Shelter of choice.

Mark was born on October 10, 1958, in Fremont, Nebraska, to Alvin and Jane (Negley) Kula.

 On September 22, 1984, Mark married the love of his life, Renie Hiatt. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and dedication. They were blessed with two daughters, Lindsay and Stephanie, who were the pride of his life. 

Mark deeply cherished his family, but nothing brought him more joy than spending time with his grandchildren. Whether it was taking them on golf cart rides or making sure their dog, Nicky, got his morning ride too, Mark treasured every moment he shared with them. He enjoyed spending time on the golf course, cheering on the Huskers, and traveling with his wife. His love, humor, and steady presence created memories that will be held close forever. 

Mark dedicated his life to serving others through a distinguished career in law enforcement of 45 years. He began his career with the Fremont Police Department and went on to serve with federal, state, and local agencies throughout the years. During his service, he worked in patrol, motorcycle, and SWAT units, earning the respect of colleagues and community members alike. Following the events of September 11th, he was assigned as a U.S. Federal Air Marshal. Mark has trained hundreds of law enforcement officers, and his passion, leadership, and commitment to the profession will leave a lasting impact for generations to come. Over these years, Mark had been blessed with many lasting friendships that he treasured. Mark will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his service to others, and the kindness and strength he showed throughout his life.

 Survivors of the immediate family include his wife, Renie Kula of Plattsmouth: two daughters and son-in-law, Lindsay Blakemore of Plattsmouth, and Stephanie and Cody Friedrichsen of Grand Island. Additional survivors include Samantha Polito (sister) and his 6 grandchildren, Adelyn, Lane, Sutton, Oaklyn, Autumn, and Hazen. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, his in-laws Cecil and Junette Hiatt, brother Mike Kula, an infant sister, son-in-law Craver Blakemore, and two sisters-in-law Susan Hiatt and Karen Hiatt. 

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him. To know him, was to love him.