Mark Davis Brolsma

July 14, 1955 – February 22, 2011

Mark Davis Brolsma was lovingly welcomed into the family of Don and Norma Brolsma on July 14, 1955. He was their second child born almost 4 years after his sister, Lisa. Mark was born the same week Disneyland opened. The world may have been excited for Disneyland but Don and Norma were thrilled to have their little baby boy join the family.

Mark was an impish little child who was “all boy.” He always enjoyed the same past times and hobbies as his father and the two were very close. They both loved the outdoors and spent many hours together fishing, hiking and enjoying nature, mostly in the small town of Big Pine, California where his grandfather, “Poppa Ike” Brolsma, lived. Mark’s last driving trip was to Big Pine last summer to reconnect with family still living there.

As a young boy, Mark was in a father/son organization called Indian Guides. They decorated, by hand, matching vests with an eagle on the backs for the tribe meetings. He was also in Boy Scouts and continued in his teen years as a Sea Scout. He loved working on the sailboat and enjoyed the short sailing trips to Mexico.

Mark had a talent like his Dad of being mechanically inclined and was able to make, fix or figure out any project to completion. He was the “go-to” guy for many friends and family when something needed to be fixed or set up.

The family forged many memories as they traveled every summer in their little travel trailer with the family dog in tow. They drove to many western states and national parks, camped out and witnessed much of God’s beautiful work. Mark and his sister, Lisa, have many fond memories of these trips as they bonded with nature and each other.

In October 1970, the family suffered a tremendous loss when Don suddenly and unexpectedly passed away. Unfortunately, Mark was with his Dad when it happened. He was only 15 when it occurred and he tried his best to step up and be the man of the house at a very young age. He kept most of his feelings bottled up but did his best to take care of his mother and sister.

Mark attended Robert A. Millikan High school and later graduating from California State University Long Beach with a Bachelor’s Degree

Throughout his life, Mark continued to enjoy the numerous activities of his childhood including fishing, camping, hunting, and later becoming an avid water skier, and dirt bike rider. He also enjoyed reading various types of literature and engaging in meaningful conversation with family and friends. Mark took pleasure in enjoying the simple things in life, such as watching the sun rising and setting at Clear Lake during his annual family vacations. Mark ultimately met his wife, Norma in Clear Lake, California. On May 14, 1983, they married at St. Francis Xavier Church in Burbank, California, and resided in the city of Burbank throughout their marriage.

Mark’s greatest love and source of pride came from his only son, Donald, whom he fondly named after his father. Mark passed on many of his family traditions to his son, who also enjoys reading, fishing, camping, water skiing and dirt bike riding. Mark instilled in Donald a strong sense of compassion and love towards animals. He attended Donald’s sporting events, school functions and supported his education.

He was a member of St. Francis Xavier Church, receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation in 2000. Mark loved music and for was a former member of the music group, Cornerstone at St. Francis Xavier Church, as a vocalist.

Mark is survived by his son, Donald James Brolsma, sister, Lisa Huff, nieces, Alyson Boocock and Erin Huff, great niece, Charlee Boocock, and former spouse of 24 years, Norma Louise Brolsma. Their family dog, Sammy, whom he adopted for his son after the passing of their beloved dog, Brandi, also survives Mark.

Mark will be deeply missed by his family and friends. His simplicity, laughter, humor, story telling, love of animals and compassion are treasures his family and friends will cherish forever.

The Rosary will be held on Friday, February 25, 2011, 7:30 p.m. at St. Francis Xavier Church, 3801 Scott Road, Burbank, CA 91504. The funeral mass will be celebrated on Saturday, February 26, 2011, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Francis Xavier Church, with internment immediately following at the Mission Hills Catholic Cemetery, 11160 Stranwood Avenue, Mission Hills, CA 91345, and reception to follow.

Arrangements under the direction of Valley Funeral Home, Burbank, CA.