Mark Kevlin

Mark Kevlin, a devoted husband, loving father, adoring grandfather, and a man whose larger-than-life personality filled every room he entered, passed away on October 7, 2026, at the age of 80, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on July 26, 1946, in Lviv, Ukraine, Mark immigrated to the United States in his early thirties, bringing with him little knowledge of the English language but an abundance of determination, intelligence, and ambition. Armed with a master’s degree earned in the former Soviet Union, he built an extraordinary career in his adopted country, ultimately rising to the position of Vice President at Goldman Sachs.

It was a remarkable American success story, but to Mark, his professional achievements were never what mattered most. His greatest pride and accomplishment were always his family.

At the center of his world was his beloved wife, Natalie, with whom he built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, adventure, and an unwavering devotion to their children and grandchildren. Together, they raised three children: Robert Kevlin, Irene Shor, and Ellen Kevlin Zlobinskiy. Mark welcomed their spouses, Yana, Alex, and Sergey, with the same warmth and affection he showed his own children.

But perhaps no role brought Mark greater joy than being “Grandpa Dog,” the affectionate nickname by which his grandchildren knew him. Alongside his beloved “Grandma Cat,” Natalie, he helped create a childhood full of wonderful memories for Lenny, Ava, Raquel, Evan, Gary, and Arnella.

Mark and Natalie were never ordinary grandparents. They were an integral part of their grandchildren’s everyday lives—driving them to activities, hosting sleepovers, sharing adventures, and simply being there. They were constant, loving presences who gave generously of their time, attention, and affection. For Mark, being a grandfather was not an occasional role; it was one of the great joys and purposes of his life.

Those who knew Mark will remember his quick wit, mischievous sense of humor, and extraordinary ability to make people laugh. He was the life of every party, never afraid to tell a joke that was just a little inappropriate, always delivered with a twinkle in his eye and an unmistakable sense of fun. He had a way of making ordinary moments memorable and family gatherings unforgettable. Life was simply more entertaining when Mark was in the room.

Mark and Natalie also shared a love of travel and adventure, creating memories together and with their family over the years. Whether exploring new places, gathering around a dinner table, or celebrating life’s milestones, Mark understood that the most valuable moments were those spent with the people he loved.

Throughout his life, Mark lived by a simple motto: “Actions speak louder than words.” It was a lesson his children heard countless times growing up, but more importantly, one they watched him live every day. Mark was not a man who needed grand declarations or sentimental speeches to express his love. He showed it by being present, by helping, by providing, by making time, and by always putting his family first. His love was reflected in what he did for those around him, often without expecting recognition or thanks.

Above all, he taught his family that nothing in life was more important than family. It was not simply something he said; it was the foundation upon which he built his life.

During the final year of his life, as he faced significant health challenges, that lesson came full circle. Natalie cared for him with extraordinary love and devotion, and the family he had spent a lifetime nurturing rallied around him. Together, they celebrated his 80th birthday, shared meals, traveled, laughed, reminisced, and created memories that will be treasured forever. Even through the difficult moments, there was an abundance of love.

In many ways, the devotion shown to Mark during his final year was the greatest testament to the life he had lived. The family he had always placed above everything else surrounded him with that same unwavering love. His children and grandchildren had learned from him that being there for one another was what mattered most, and when he needed them, they were there.

Mark leaves behind his beloved wife, Natalie; his children, Robert Kevlin and his wife Yana, Irene Shor and her husband Alex, and Ellen Kevlin and her husband Sergey Zlobinskiy; and his six cherished grandchildren, Lenny, Ava, Raquel, Evan, Gary, and Arnella.

His legacy cannot be measured by professional titles or accomplishments, impressive as they were. It lives in the family he built, the values he instilled, the laughter he inspired, and the countless ways he showed his love.

Mark spent a lifetime teaching his family that actions speak louder than words. In the end, the love that surrounded him spoke louder than any words ever could.

He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and remembered every time his family gathers, shares a laugh, tells an inappropriate joke, or reminds one another that family comes first.

Funeral service will held at 10:00 AM at Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota with burial to follow in Temple Beth Sholom Cemetery, 801 Circus Blvd. Sarasota.