Mark Lloyd McGavran

Mark Lloyd McGavran passed away peacefully on July 9, 2021 at the age of 77 in Pomona, CA.  He was born on his sister Darrelyn’s second birthday on October 26, 1943 to Darrel and Katherine McGavran.  He is preceded in death by his parents and his brothers-in-law Mike Mayernik and David Adamcik.  He is survived by brother Stephen (Kathleen) McGavran of Denver, CO and sisters Darrelyn Mayernik of Anaheim and Kathy Adamcik of Fresno.  He also leaves behind four nieces and two nephews.

Mark attended Ford School, Wilshire Jr. High and Fullerton Union High School where he played clarinet in the Marching Band, ran track and cross country and was a member of the debate team.  During his high school years he was a sports reporter for the Fullerton News Tribune.

Mark spent some time studying at San Diego State College.  He applied to be a conscientious objector on moral grounds during the Viet Nam war time but was denied and he was drafted into the Army.  During this time he suffered a permanent injury to his wrists.  He worked for a period of time as a bookseller.  He enjoyed drawing in charcoal and pastels for many years.

Mark had several passions.  The first of which were books!  He spent countless hours in the Library reading.  He read everything from the Greek philosophers to the Russian novelists.  He read history and current events.  He often told obscure tidbits about the American presidents.  Not only did he read, he understood and would share his knowledge.

He loved classical music particularly the Rachmaninov piano concertos and symphonies and compositions such as Faure’s Requiem.

Mark loved to debate.  He often played the role of devil’s advocate.  Because he was so knowledgeable he could argue circles around others and get great pleasure from doing so.

Finally, Mark loved cats.  From the time he was a young child until late in life he really had a special place in his heart for felines! 

Mark lived a hard life and his brilliant mind was ravaged by dementia.  But he  would be happy to be remembered as a man with a book in his hand and a cat on his lap.

Mark will be laid to rest at Loma Vista Cemetery on Saturday July 17, 2021 at 1pm where his parents and grandparents are buried.