Mark “Bassace” Kangas was born on December 6, 1963, in Racine, Wisconsin. He died at home on October 10, 2026, accompanied by the love of his life.

He was preceded in death by his father, Jack Kangas; his stepmother, Nanda Kangas; and his stepfather, Richard Emmerling. He is survived by his wife, Rachael Kinch; his daughter, Sarah Kangas; his grandson, Judah Tyyska; his mother, Ann Emmerling; his brothers, Keith (Mary) Kangas, Chris Emmerling, and Richard (Fran) Emmerling; his sisters, Leilani (Bill) Maydole, Cynthia Kangas, and Sandy Emmerling; as well as many nieces and nephews.

At a young age, Mark discovered the bass guitar, and it became one of his lifelong passions. His life was defined by his dedication to and skill in his musical craft. He was a prominent member of many local bands over the years, including E’Z’ Livin’, Five-O, Lyden Moon, Hywatt, Foxhole Pete, and Taunting Richard. He became a staple of the Racine music scene and will forever be remembered for the mark he made on this city.

His bandmates over the years became his chosen family, sharing many laughs, love, and triumphs. They were always there to support Mark during hard times and were sources of joy in his life.

When his daughter was born in 1989, Mark spent his life instilling in her and his grandson the things he loved. From private bass lessons to hours spent wandering through museums, Mark shared his love of learning and his many passions with those around him.

Outside of music, he was an avid reader and even a novelist, writing several works over the years. His passion for reading and writing extended beyond him and took root in his daughter, Sarah, who is now an English teacher. Many weekends were spent inside museums or outdoors hiking and enjoying the environment. He had a passion for adventure and instilled that passion in those around him.

His daughter attributes her curious and free-spirited nature to the things he taught her—not through his words, but through his actions and the many life experiences she was able to enjoy by his side. These included seeing live music, hiking and climbing cliffs in Michigan (much to her grandmother’s fear), and immersing herself in different cultures and histories.

When Sarah began to embrace performance art, Mark was there to cheer her on. Her fondest memories are of her father supporting her at a variety of events and always encouraging her, whether through his words or through gifts of circus props. His support was pivotal in shaping the person she has become. Through Sarah and his grandson, Judah, Mark will live on.

In 1991, Mark met his soulmate, Rachael Kinch. For the last 35 years, they built a life together in Racine. They shared a love of music, playing many instruments and supporting each other over the years in all their musical endeavors. There was hardly a show of Mark’s where Rachael couldn’t be found cheering the loudest, filling the room with energy and pride. In turn, when it was Rachael’s time on stage, Mark would be there, telling everyone who would listen that she was his wife.

Music wasn’t their only hobby; they also shared a passion for traveling and motorcycles. Over the years, the couple enjoyed many adventures together, taking their Harleys to Gatlinburg, Two Harbors, Minnesota; Devils Tower, Wyoming; Washington Island, Wisconsin; Sturgis, South Dakota (four times!); and many other locations throughout Wisconsin, Michigan, and Minnesota.

Throughout their lives, one thing was always constant: they always had each other’s backs. When Mark became sick, Rachael was always nearby, providing comfort whenever he needed it. Their love story will be remembered as something truly wonderful.

Mark was a fighter. He lived for his music, his family, and his friends. He never let a diagnosis or situation define him. Instead, he approached life’s challenges like water moving through a riverbed. For 17 years, he fought. For 17 years, he truly lived an adventurous and fulfilling life, and throughout those years, his positivity and strength never wavered.

The family would like to thank the individuals who stood by Mark and reminded him, even in his final weeks, that he was loved, appreciated, and mattered.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.