Mark Bernard Felder

Mark Felder passed away on September 8, 2026, at 74. Born June 29, 1952, to Marvel and Bernie Felder, Mark graduated from Monroe Catholic Central High School, which is where he picked up a clarinet for the first time and fell in love with music. He earned degrees from Eastern Michigan University.

Felder directed bands at Jefferson High School and Monroe County Community College. In his “retirement,” he directed the Dodworth Saxhorn Band, the Tecumseh Big Band, and the IHM choir.

He played in the Monroe Big Band, the Saline Big Band, the Johnny Knorr Orchestra, and the Adrian Symphony. He also played with tours for the Manhattan Transfer and Stars of the Lawrence Welk Show. He was the music director for over 150 musicals, including the national tour of “Into the Woods,” and he played in countless other musicals. 

In his spare time, he enjoyed extensive travel, woodworking, and spoiling his grandchildren.

Felder’s teaching reached thousands of students. He inspired many to pursue music in ways big and small. He will be dearly missed.

He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Matthew Felder. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Ann (Streasick) Felder; their children, Maggie (Shaun) Gautz, Andrew (Jessica) Felder, and Patrick Felder and his wife, Ashley Powers; five grandchildren; and four sisters. Visitation will be Saturday, September 19, from 1 to 6 p.m. at the IHM chapel. There will be a vigil immediately following, from 6 to 7 p.m. at the chapel. He will lie in state in the IHM chapel Sunday, September 20, from 3 to 4 p.m. The funeral will be in the IHM chapel at 4 p.m.

Memorial donations may be made to the Mark and Ann Felder Endowment for the Performing Arts at monroeccc.edu/foundation/felder or to the IHM Sisters.