After a short but brutal battle with cancer, Mark died Sept. 1 at the age of 66.
Mark was born in Fredericton, New Brunswick. The family of seven moved to Pierrefonds Quebec in 1967. After high school he attended culinary school, worked in a few Montreal restaurants and was an Electrolux repairman among other jobs. Mark was married to Maha (Sourour), the love of his life on April 16th, 1994 in Montreal until her untimely passing in 2003. He was pre-deceased by older brothers Bruce and Glenn and parents Robert & Jacqueline.
He decided to make Salt Spring Island home after setting foot on it for the first time to visit his sister Judy. Mark convinced his mom to go with him in 2005, Jacqui loved her life there and happily left the snow behind.
Mark joined the Lions soon after his move as he wanted to be involved with the community, he built a homemade trebuchet for the Lions ‘Game of Throws’ pumpkin toss event, ran the weekly garage sale for a number of years and worked at Pioneer Village. He also enjoyed his time as a ranger at Ruckle Park and being outside.
The friends he made at the Lions became his treasured second family. His wicked sense of humour, easy laugh, larger than life presence, enveloping bear hugs and gentleness will be sorely missed by them, his good neighbours and anyone who was fortunate to know him.
Mark is survived by his beloved Island family, sister Judy, brother Eric and sister-in-law Virginia. A Celebration of Mark’s life will be held at the Lions Hall (103 Bonnet Avenue) on Sunday October 12th from noon to three p.m. Please come and share your stories and remembrances.
I met Mark when he was helping move one of our residents. He had an infectious laugh, the strength of a bear, and was a very gentle soul. His presence on this island will be missed as he helped so many people, never asking for anything. His dedication to his sister was heartwarming. May you live free of pain and spread your laughter. RIP