Leadership Team – Deacon Mark Ebben

Education

I attended both St. John School for grade school and high school, and after attending the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh and Madison, I obtained my BS degree in Optics. Further studies found me at the Illinois College of Optometry where I received my Doctor of Optometry degree in 1978 after which I practiced optometry in the valley until my retirement in 2020.

Prior experience

In 2013, I was ordained a Deacon for the Diocese of Green Bay and served the Kaukauna Catholic Parishes for ten years. With the invitation of Fr. Ron and Deacon Dave, and the nudging of the Holy Spirit, you find me here. It is a privilege to be back in my home parish.

Family

I am the sixth of seven children, born and raised in Little Chute. My wife, Mary, and I are the proud parents of five adult children and six grandchildren.

Hobbies/Interests

In the spring, you will find me tapping trees and making maple syrup. In the summer, I will be biking or fishing with the grandkids. In the fall, I enjoy bow and gun hunting. Cross country skiing is my enjoyment in the winter.

I have a special interest in providing eye care to developing countries, especially Haiti and Nicaragua, and have been involved in this service since 1977.

mebben@stjn.org