Wesley Marks

October 8, 1930 – August 27, 2024

The world lost a true legend on August 27, 2024, when Wesley Marks, aged 93, passed away peacefully, in his Framingham home, surrounded by his loving family. Born on October 8, 1930, in Boston, Wesley was the epitome of love, dedication, and generosity, a man who gave his all to his family, friends, and the community he cherished so deeply. Throughout his remarkable life, Wesley was a beacon of strength and kindness and was a devoted husband, an amazing Father, Grandfather, Great-grandfather, Son, Brother, and Uncle. Wesley’s unwavering commitment to his family was the foundation of everything he did. There was nothing he wouldn't do for those he loved, and his family knew they could always count on him for support, wisdom, and unconditional love.

Beyond his family, Wesley was a true friend to many, always ready with a helping hand or a listening ear. His friends knew him as a man of integrity and loyalty, someone who could be relied upon in times of need and celebrated in times of joy. His generosity knew no bounds, and his home was always open, a place of warmth and welcome for all who entered.

Wesley was raised in Brookline, MA by his parents, Samuel and Minnie Marks, alongside his beloved sister, Priscilla who passed away in 2023. He was a graduate of Brookline High School, and then joined the United States Army at a young age, driven by a deep sense of duty and patriotism. He served his country with honor and distinction in the Army’s 101st Airborne Division during The Korean War, earning the respect of his comrades and the gratitude of a nation.

After his military service, Wesley returned to Brookline, where he joined his father Sam in the family’s Boston-based trucking company, Marks Dispatch. Wesley operated and grew the business with determination. He led his team of employees with kindness, developed lifelong relationships with peers in the industry, and had an incredible ability to delight his customers with the best service in the trucking business. Wesley’s business legacy continues to this day, and he has positively impacted the lives of several hundred Marks-team-members.

In his later years, Wesley continued to inspire those around him, demonstrating that a life well-lived is one filled with meaning, purpose, connection, and love. He was a role model, coach, and mentor, and his wisdom and guidance will continue to influence those who knew him.

Wesley is survived by his loving wife, of more than 70 years, Shirley Marks, his beloved children Alan Marks and his wife Lynn, his daughter Stephanie Marks and her husband Jon Plotkin, and his son Richard Marks and his wife Lauren. Wesley is also survived by his grandchildren Rachel Marks Hodgson and her husband Nate, Daniel Marks and his wife Kelsie, Alissa (Marks) Huntsman and her husband Chris, Josh Plotkin and his wife Taylor, Leah Plotkin, Elana (Marks) Kalucki and her husband Steve. Wesley also had six great-grandchildren: Anna and Wesley Hodgson, McKenna and Sophie Marks, and Emma and Theo Huntsman, and loving Nieces, Nephews, and Great Nieces and Nephews. This large, loving and local family will carry forward the values and love that Wes, affectionately known as Pada, instilled in them. His passing leaves a void that can never be filled, but his spirit will live on in the countless lives he touched.

A celebration of Wesley’s life will be held on September 4, 2024, at 1:00PM, at the Stanetsky Memorial Chapel, 475 Washington Street, Canton, MA. Friends and family are invited to gather in honor of a man who gave so much to so many. There will be a video streaming option available for those that are unable to attend the service in Canton. Immediately following the celebration, there will be a graveside service at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham Street, Sharon, MA. Immediately following the graveside service, from 5:00pm to 8:00pm, the family invites the community to The Branches of Framingham, 518 Pleasant Street, Framingham, MA for Shiva. Shiva will also be held on Thursday, September 5, 20241:00pm to 4:00pm, and then from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at The Branches of Framingham, 518 Pleasant Street, Framingham, MA.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Wesley’s honor to one or more of the following organizations: The Pan Mass Challenge (pmc.org/am0333), The Ron Burton Training Village (ronburtontrainingvillage.org), The Rodman for Kids Foundation (rodmanforkids.org), or Jewish Family Services of MetroWest (jfsmw.org), reflecting Wesley’s lifelong commitment to helping others.

The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to the incredible professionals who cared for Wesley over the years, as well as the team at United States Department of Veterans Affairs, who have always been there with their support and services, and especially Dr. Susan Bennett of Massachusetts General Hospital, for her compassionate care and continued support to the Marks family.

Wesley, you were truly legendary. You lived a life full of love, generosity and service, and you will be forever missed by all.