

Born in Winnipeg, MB as the only child of Harold “Hal” and Doreen (nee Davy); attended Glenlawn Collegiate; worked at CNR 1965-1967. Following in his father's footsteps, Mark entered his first formal golf competition at age of 12, winning a few junior tournaments. In 1968, he attended the first US PGA Business School. Was Assistant Pro at John Blumberg Golf Course in Winnipeg 1968-1970, and in 1971-1975 at Musqueam Golf Centre, Vancouver. He was known as an excellent golf teacher, sales manager, and writer on golf tip articles for a Vancouver community paper. In 1975, Mark made a career change when he completed the mortgage broker pre-licensing course at University of B.C.; brokered mortgages in Vancouver until 1986 and continued in his own business after relocating family to Winnipeg until retirement. During his sons’ school years, he took pride in serving the community and volunteered as winter convener and hockey coach at Windsor Community Club in Winnipeg. As a young golf professional in the 70’s Mark shot a Vancouver club course record; enjoyed playing chess, fly fishing, listening to Simon and Garfunkel, nightly talk radio shows; interests were in archeology, history, world events; and most delighted in his 3 year old granddaughter. Kipling’s poem “If” and song “My Way” were two favourites. He was honoured to accept, on behalf of his late father, two awards inducting “Hal” into the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame 2004 and Manitoba Golf Hall of Fame 2015.
Mark is survived by his loving wife Nancy of 44 years, his son Garrett (Priscille) and granddaughter Ariana of Vancouver, and son Drew (Vanessa) of Winnipeg. Mark’s spirits were greatly lifted during his hospitalization when family members came to celebrate his 70th birthday, and when cousin David Tomlinson would often visit.
Following a private internment, a reception for family and friends and celebration of life service will be held on Easter Monday, March 28, 2016 from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm at Springs of Living Water Church, 595 Lagimodiere Boulevard.
Family wishes to express grateful appreciation for the excellent care and compassion given by the staff of the St. Boniface Hospital Palliative Unit and the Community Palliative Program.
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Mark may be directed to either the WRHA Palliative Community Health Care Fund through HSC Foundation or the Palliative Care Endowment Fund through St. Boniface Hospital Foundation.
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