Mark Mahlon Maxwell, 85

Mark “Mahlon” Maxwell was born Feb. 17, 1940, to Mark and Frankie (Wagner) Maxwell in Caldwell, Idaho. He passed away peacefully Nov. 30, 2025, at his home in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. 

Mahlon graduated from Boise High School in 1958 and attended Boise Junior College (BJC), where he played football and helped lead the team to victory in the school’s first National Championship, defeating Tyler, Texas, 22–0 in 1958. After BJC, he transferred to the University of Nevada, where he attended from 1960 to 1963.

Following his education, Mahlon began his distinguished career with the Idaho State Police (ISP) in 1965. He served with dedication until his retirement in 1992. He then worked as a U.S. Marshal before fully retiring.

On July 14, 1962, Mahlon married the love of his life, Connie Olechea, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Boise, Idaho. Together, they raised three children — Michelle, Brent and Scott — and shared 63 wonderful years of marriage.

The couple made their home in the Treasure Valley before moving to Coeur d’Alene when Mahlon transferred with the ISP. Outside of work, he could often be found boating, playing softball or barbecuing in his backyard with friends and family.

Mahlon remained proud of his BJC championship team and was honored to be inducted into the Boise State University Hall of Fame in 1982. He was a proud athlete, devoted public servant, loving husband, as well as a cherished father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

Mahlon is survived by his wife, Connie; their three children, Michelle (Jimmy), Brent (Joy), and Scott (Becky); 11 grandchildren — Stephanie, Josh (Kenzie), Andrew, Nathaniel (Valerie), Zane (Alexis), Jordyn (Jesse), McKenzie (Jake), Kayla, Marissa (Ethan), Lainey (Blake), and Jacob (Timarie); and 16 great-grandchildren — Lennon, Daxton, Remi, Blake, Charlie, Theodore, Willa Mae, Samuel, Walker, Keith, Stella, Luna, Norman, Jameson, Ollie and one on the way. He is also survived by his cousins and a large extended family.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to their neighbors, the caregivers at Hospice, and their many relatives and friends for their love, prayers and support.

A private family service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Schneidmiller Hospice House or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

I am always with you. A limb has fallen from the family tree that says, “Grieve not for me.” Remember the best times, the laughter, the song, the good life I lived while I was strong.