We are sad to announce that Mark passed away on January 23rd at the age of 78 in his home at Melody Manor in Yorkton.
Mark was born to Hetta and Lionel in Esterhazy on October 12th, 1942. He resided on the family farm throughout his life until his retirement. He attended Esterhaz rural school and enjoyed interacting with neighbouring classmates of all ages and loved playing softball.
Mark remained on the farm after leaving his schooling. His life on the farm included all the challenges and experiences of the traditional family farm. The seasonal demands of mixed farming including all types of livestock and grain production required a wide range of skills and a lot of hard work. Mark had a special interest in raising cattle and gradually established a large herd which was a major part of the farming operation.
Mark and Donna Hollinger were married in 1973 and continued to operate the farm. They farmed in collaboration with brother Lynn and his son Bryan who had established their own family farms. Their family grew with the addition of their two daughters Holly and Carla. Mark continued to actively farm until eventually purchasing his retirement home in Esterhazy.
Mark enjoyed his retirement years in Esterhazy. His love for animals continued while caring for his cats and dog. He developed numerous new friendships and was able to maximize his passion for competition beyond his enthusiasm for the Maple Leafs and Riders by becoming a valued spectator for the Esterhazy Flyers including their league road games.
Mark developed medical conditions requiring ongoing specialized treatment. Initially he was able to commute to access the needed resources, however by 2012 it became necessary for him to relocate to Yorkton. He subsequently resided in special care settings, most recently at Melody Manor at the Yorkton and District Nursing Home until his passing.
During these years of residency, Mark’s kind-heartedness and sense of humour continued to be evident in his interactions with his caregivers. His smile and humour was always part of visits and usually included a trouncing on his crib board.
The family extends their deepest gratitude and appreciation to everyone who knew and cared for Mark, particularly the caregivers at Melody Manor and the Dialysis Unit at the Yorkton Regional Hospital.
Mark leaves to mourn his daughters Holly and Carla; siblings Carrol (Richard) Morris, Doug (Carol) Glazer, Christine Glazer, sister-in-law Eunice Glazer and Aunt Irene Kulovany. Mark was predeceased by his parents Lionel and Hetta, brother Lynn, and brother-in-law Del Doyscher.