Mark Skender, Chicago, IL Obituary: Former Skender Construction CEO Mark Skender Passes Away Unexpectedly
Chicago, IL – April 2025 — Mark Skender, former CEO of Skender Construction and a widely respected figure in the construction industry, passed away unexpectedly this past weekend. He was 63.
A driving force behind the evolution of Skender Construction for more than three decades, Mark was known for his visionary leadership, innovative mindset, and unwavering commitment to collaboration and community. He served as CEO of the Chicago-based firm from 2014 to 2020, following 25 years as executive vice president.
“The passing of Mark Skender deeply saddens us,” the company shared in a public statement. “Mark was more than a leader—he was a visionary who helped shape the future of our company and our industry over three decades.”
Throughout his career, Mark was instrumental in transforming Skender into one of the city’s most forward-thinking and socially conscious construction companies. He championed lean construction practices, prioritized the adoption of new technologies, and fostered a culture rooted in transparency, teamwork, and shared purpose.
A co-founder of the Lean Construction Institute’s Chicago Community of Practice, Mark also contributed to the future of the profession as an adjunct professor at Northwestern University, where he mentored and inspired the next generation of industry leaders.
Those who worked with him remember his steady leadership, generous spirit, and firm belief in the power of innovation. “His influence lives on in the buildings he helped bring to life and in the people and teams he inspired every day,” the company noted.
Beyond the construction world, Mark was an avid traveler and longtime board member of Hostelling International, reflecting his passion for exploration and global connection.
Mark is survived by his wife, Roxanne, and their two children, Elena and Daniel. His loss is deeply felt by the Skender family, his many friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Instead of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made in Mark’s memory to Hostelling International USA, 8455 Colesville Road, Suite 1225, Silver Spring, MD 20910, or online at www.hiusa.org/donations.
Funeral arrangements will be announced in the coming days.
