In Loving Memory of Mark Skender
Former CEO of Skender Construction | Visionary Leader | Beloved Colleague and Friend
We are deeply saddened to share the news of the passing of Mark Skender, former CEO of Skender Construction. Mark was far more than a leader—he was a visionary whose legacy continues to shape not just our company, but the broader construction industry he helped transform over a distinguished career spanning more than three decades.
Mark’s journey with Skender began in 1989 when he joined the company as Executive Vice President, a role he held for 25 years. In 2014, he stepped into the role of CEO, leading the company until his retirement in 2020. During these years, Mark was a driving force behind Skender’s evolution into one of Chicago’s most innovative and community-centered construction firms. His impact is woven into the very foundation of our identity, our values, and the way we build.
Mark championed lean construction practices long before they became industry buzzwords. He believed in smarter, more efficient building processes that embraced transparency, teamwork, and continuous improvement. He was not only an advocate for these methods—he was a teacher, mentor, and thought leader. As co-founder of the Lean Construction Institute’s Chicago Community of Practice, and as an adjunct professor at Northwestern University, Mark generously shared his expertise and passion for innovation with others, always striving to elevate the profession and those around him.
More than his accolades and achievements, those who had the privilege of working with Mark will remember his steady, thoughtful leadership and his unwavering belief in the power of people. He inspired trust with his calm presence, motivated teams with his collaborative spirit, and always led with empathy and integrity. His genuine care for his colleagues, clients, and partners left a lasting impression—one that continues to resonate in every relationship he helped build.
Mark’s influence can be seen not only in the skyline, through the many transformative projects he brought to life, but also in the hearts of those he mentored, collaborated with, and called friends. He nurtured a culture at Skender that prioritized community, inclusion, and the belief that construction could—and should—be a force for good.
Outside of work, Mark was a passionate traveler who believed in the power of global exploration and connection. He dedicated many years of service to Hostelling International, serving on its board and supporting its mission to make travel accessible and enriching for people of all backgrounds. That same spirit of curiosity and openness that defined his travels also defined how he led, lived, and loved.
Mark is survived by his beloved wife, Roxanne, and their children, Elena and Daniel. To them—and to the entire Skender family, his many dear friends, colleagues, and all who knew and admired him—we extend our deepest, most heartfelt condolences.
In memory of Mark’s generous soul and his lifelong commitment to connection and learning, donations may be made in his name to:
Hostelling International USA
8455 Colesville Road, Suite 1225
Silver Spring, MD 20910
We will miss Mark greatly—but we will carry his spirit forward, every day, in every project, and in every moment we strive to build a better, more thoughtful world.
Rest in peace, Mark. Your legacy lives on.