November 13, 1954 - November 1, 2024
In loving memory ~
It is with great sadness that we share Mark, our Husband, Father and Ocean Grandpa, passed away in the late afternoon of November 1st, 2024 at the Campbell River Hospital.
Mark was predeceased by his parents Henry and Ena, his brothers Mike and George, and his sister Judy. He is survived by his loving wife Laura, daughter Jocelyn (Craig), son Derek and his two beautiful granddaughters, Ryan and Rhys.
Mark was born and raised in Burnaby, BC and graduated from Burnaby South High School in 1972. He spent many hours of his youth fishing, hunting and playing soccer. He attended UBC, graduating with a Bachelor of Science Degree, and then BCIT, graduating with a Diploma in Forest Resource Technology (Fish, Wildlife and Recreation). Mark and Laura were married in 1978 and the family moved to Vancouver Island in 1980, where Mark began his 31-year career with the Government of Canada, Department of Fisheries and Oceans. He worked at the Big Qualicum Fish Hatchery for 4 years before taking a promotion to the Kitimat Fish Hatchery, where he worked until he eventually retired as manager. Mark enjoyed many of the recreational opportunities Kitimat and surrounding area had to offer, continuing to fish and hunt when he was able. His love and knowledge of the outdoors was something Mark passed on to his children and grandchildren, who from a very young age can all fondly remember correcting anyone who might unknowingly call a Yellow-bellied Sapsucker a "bird" or a Green-winged Teal a "duck".
Mark was a cancer survivor. In 1990 he battled Leukemia, receiving one of the very early bone marrow transplants from an unrelated donor in Canada. Although he continued to be impacted by the after-effects of this cancer treatment for the rest of his life, Mark remained thankful for the years he was able to spend watching his children and grandchildren grow up and support Laura in her many endeavours.
Mark and Laura retired to Campbell River in 2014, and Mark could be found spending time in his garden or enjoying the ocean view from his deck. He also enjoyed daily outings, whether in rain, snow or sun, with his best walking partner - Murphy, the golden doodle.
Mark's family would like to express our heartfelt thanks to Dr. Eckford, the Ambulance/Fire Rescue members, as well as all the wonderful, caring staff at Campbell River Hospital and Victoria General Hospital whom we have encountered over the last few months. The compassion shown to Mark and our family has been greatly appreciated.
In accordance with Mark's wishes, no service will be held. Instead, we encourage you to think of Mark as you plant your garden, enjoy the outdoors or take the dog for a walk. And if you are able, please consider donating blood and/or registering to be a stem cell donor with Canadian Blood Services - you may be able to give someone the same life-saving gift that made such a difference to our family.