Peter Park Chuen Mark

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Peter Mark on Friday, November 15, 2024, at the age of 91.

Peter was a loving and devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather, and friend. Affectionately known to many as “Uncle Peter,” he touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy is one of kindness, generosity, and a deep commitment to family, community, and hard work. Peter lived a full and meaningful life—both personally and professionally—leaving a lasting positive impact on all who crossed his path. Beyond the twinkle in his eye and his infectious smile, he will be remembered as a provider, a pioneer, an entrepreneur, and a dedicated community leader.

Peter emigrated from China to Canada at the age of 18, settling in Melville, Saskatchewan, in 1951. In 1959, he married the love of his life, Susan, with whom he shared 65 wonderful years of marriage. Peter’s legacy in Melville began to take shape when he and Susan helped facilitate the emigration of his parents and siblings from China to Canada , providing for them all both financially and emotionally.

In 1960, Peter and Susan welcomed the first of their three children into the world, all while running Mark’s Groceteria, a grocery store that was the first of its kind in the area. Operating 13 hours a day, seven days a week, and 365 days a year, Mark’s Groceteria became a cornerstone of the community. It was during this time that Peter took up the game of golf, a sport that would remain a lifelong passion. The hard work and success he enjoyed in Melville laid the foundation for the next chapter of his life.

In 1981, Peter made the bold decision to sell Mark’s Groceteria and relocate to Vancouver, B.C., a time when interest rates were as high as 18%. This move allowed him to be closer to family and friends, and Peter began a successful 16-year career at Lilydale Poultry. He retired in 1997, embracing a new phase of life with many interests, including more time on the golf course and, alongside Susan, a newfound passion for ballroom dancing.

Peter quickly became a beloved member of the Thunderbird Community Centre, where he championed weekly senior’s ballroom dance events. His love for dancing, along with his natural leadership and charisma, meant his dance card was always full.

In 2012, while dancing—one of his greatest joys—Peter suffered a cardiac arrest. Fortunately, the presence of a defibrillator and quick action of the Thunderbird team and prompt care of the medical team at St. Paul’s Hospital gave him a full recovery. This second chance allowed Peter to continue creating cherished memories with his loved ones and friends. His strength, work ethic, and love for life were evident in everything he did, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Peter is survived by his wife of 65 years, Susan Mark, daughter, Belinda Stevenson ,sons, Sid Mark ( Barb Wong ) and Barry Mark ( Anne Mark) and grandsons Wade Stevenson, Aaron Mark and Evan Mark. Peter also has many siblings, nieces and nephews that will carry on his legacy.

A visitation will be held at Forest Lawn Funeral Home; 3789 Royal Oak Ave, Burnaby, BC; on Thursday, December 5, 2024, from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM. A Celebration of Life will follow on Friday, December 6, 2024, at 1:00 PM, with a reception to follow. Condolences may be added below by clicking on "Add Memory".

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a charity of your choice in Peter's memory.

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