Roderick Allan Wark

Roderick Allan Wark – Successful business executive, accomplished sailor, gourmet cook, mentor to many and rum connoisseur, passed away suddenly on February 4th, 2019, at the Halifax Infirmary following recent surgery.

We are shocked and grieving that Rod left us too soon. He is survived by his wife, Lynn Thornton, and sister, Susan Radford (Wayne Girvan). Also, sister-in-law, Margaret Bryant and family; brother-in-law, Jim Thornton (Paula) and family; uncle, Darrell Roode; cousins and many close friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Allan and Phyllis (Roode) Wark.

Although way too short, Rod had a full and busy life. We have much to share, so settle in.

Rod was born on May 8th, 1958, and spent his formative years in Truro. Even at a young age, his intellect and independent thinking were clear. Rod revelled in challenging himself and others – vigorously attested by his parents. His entrepreneurial and management capabilities became evident early; he owned and operated a sound mixing and DJ business with high school friends, which instilled his ongoing affection for classic rock music.

Following his studies at Dalhousie University, Rod soon found his career calling in the Information Technology industry with IT management roles at Home Hardware and Sobeys. In 1984, Rod became the Branch Manager of Synerlogic Halifax offering him a new challenge and the chance to live closer to Lynn, who he had met through sailing the prior year. Married in 1985, Rod and Lynn enjoyed 33 years of a strong partnership, wonderful travels and memorable adventures together.

Rod moved into a key leadership role with Andersen Consulting in 1988 with the acquisition of Synerlogic and took on further responsibilities when he relocated to Ontario in 1991. He established their Canadian systems management operation in Etobicoke, becoming recognized as a top leader in the North American IT outsourcing sector. Rod was promoted to Associate Partner with Andersen Consulting (now known as Accenture) and played a pivotal role in growing their business in Canada and the US. Over this period, Rod and Lynn enjoyed living in Oakville, sailing on Lake Ontario and spending time with Lynn’s family in Burlington.

Returning to Nova Scotia in 1996, Rod went on to spearhead the creation of xwave – a new Canadian IT services company. As the President and CEO, he led the organization from a start-up operation to a national industry player in less than 5 years. He took pride in his achievements but more so truly valued the many great and lasting friendships he made through his work in the IT consulting industry.

In 2004, Rod returned to his entrepreneurial roots and became a successful business owner with AME Supply and later established VMG Strategic Consulting in 2006. For the past 12 years, Rod has provided executive consulting services for organizational transformations and multi-million dollar acquisitions as well as managing IT operations and infrastructure for clients.

Rod developed an interest and love of sailing in the early 1980s. He upgraded and upsized boats (yes, bigger is better!) over the years from a Niagara 26 to a C&C 33 and then a C&C 44. He and Lynn spent lots of their free time taking friends for a sail in the Halifax and Chester area waters. As well, they enjoyed sailing vacations in the Caribbean and Rod participated in several Marblehead to Halifax races over the years. He was a member of the Bedford Basin Yacht Club and served as Commodore and Planning Committee Chair back in the late 80s and early 90s. Rod volunteered his time and expertise to run many first-rate regattas, including the NS Match Racing Championships series.

Throughout Rod’s life, many organizations, clients, colleagues and friends have benefitted from his unwavering work ethic, strategic thinking, leadership capabilities and mentorship. Rod strived for high standards and stretched boundaries – he didn’t need to colour outside the lines, there simply were no lines for him.

Rod was never happier than when out for a sail on a beautiful day, hosting fabulous dinner parties, enjoying a round of golf with Lynn or crossing items off his meticulous to do lists. He was known for his discerning taste in luxury cars and high-end electronics. Rod was a generous and loyal friend with a mischievously clever sense of humour.

Rod made an indelible impression wherever he ventured. There is an irreplaceable void left in his mighty wake.

The family expresses their heartfelt appreciation to Dr. David MacNeil, Dr. Simon Jackson, Dr. David Horne, the cardiac surgery team and Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit at the QEII Health Science Center for the outstanding and compassionate care provided to Rod.

There will be a celebration to honour Rod’s life on Friday, February 8th from 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM (Tribute remarks at 3:30 PM) at the JA Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Drive, Halifax. Interment will be at a later date.

For donations, the family suggests the Heart & Stroke Foundation or a charity important to you in honour of Rod.