Donald Mark

Don was predeceased by his loving parents, and siblings. He was a truly amazing uncle to his many nieces and nephews and will be fondly remembered for his kindness, generosity, and the countless memories he created with his extended family and friends.

He was born in Niagara Falls, Ontario, on October 22, 1931, one of 11 children born to Norman Watson Mark of Orillia, Ontario and Agnes (Blythe) Mark, originally of Edinburgh, Scotland. After spending a few seasons on the water with his family aboard a large boat, the family moved to Fort Erie in 1937, settling at 207 Gilmore Road. It was there that Don grew up and, many years later, returned home to live just prior to his retirement.

As a young boy, Don enjoyed attending Sunday School at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, where he discovered his love of music and singing in the choir.

Don showed his passion for life through his love of gardening, cooking, baking, dancing, and, most of all, spending time with family and friends. He was a lighthearted man who loved to share the many stories of life’s adventures—especially the ones that seemed to happen only to him! His stories brought countless heartfelt laughs to those around him. Don had a generous spirit and found many ways to bless every member of his family.

Family was always a priority for Don. Following the passing of his mother, he continued to return home to care for and support his brothers, Art and Chuck, demonstrating the love and devotion he held for his family.

Affectionately known as “D. Mark,” Don dedicated his entire career to Willson’s Brokerage Ltd., beginning as a Customs Broker and eventually becoming a valued Manager. He devoted more than 50 years of dedicated service to the firm and was instrumental in establishing offices in Fort Erie, Windsor, and Sarnia. He will be greatly missed by the many employees and colleagues at Willson’s who remember him with great fondness and affection.

Just prior to his retirement, Don returned home to Fort Erie, where, through a special friend, he met Betty, whom he often called “the love of his life.” Don and Betty shared more than 20 wonderful years together. They attended church, where Don made a personal commitment to Christ under Pastor Shaw’s ministry. They sang together in the choir, made many new friends, travelled, and shared one of their favourite pastimes—dining out!

Following Betty’s passing, Don continued to cherish the memories of their life together. At 93 years of age, he became a resident of the newly built Gilmore Lodge, where he spent his final two years surrounded by the care and compassion of the dedicated staff. The family is deeply grateful to the nursing staff and caregivers at Gilmore Lodge for the exceptional care, kindness, and compassion they provided to Don over the past two years.

Don is now at home with Jesus, his Lord and Saviour, and will be lovingly remembered and forever cherished in the hearts of his family and friends.

Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life Service at Williams Funeral Services, 722 Ridge Road North, Ridgeway, on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. The service will be available to view live on Williams Funeral Services’ Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/williamsfuneralservices/

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Gilmore Lodge and would be appreciated by his family.