Mark John Bailey

“If you love something, love it completely, cherish it, say it, but most importantly, show it. Life is finite and fragile, and just because something is there one day, it might not be the next. Never take that for granted. Say what you need to say, then say a little more. Say too much. Show too much. Love too much. Everything is temporary but love. Love outlives us all.” – R. Queen

How does one effectively capture the enormity of spirit and personality in a few paragraphs, especially for a man like Mark?

Mark came into my life when I was nineteen years old. Little did I know at that time what an amazing life we would build together over thirty-eight years.

Mark was the hardest working man I’ve ever known. He was driven by filling each and every day with projects and chores. He was happiest when he was busy, and he was restless when he wasn’t. There were never any jobs that were too big or daunting in Mark’s eyes. The bigger the challenge, the more motivated he was. He would say to me, “come on Nursey, let’s getter done.” His unwavering energy and motivation were matched by his skill set. That man could build anything and fix anything. He was never afraid to try to perfect a new skill. He would not be told that he “couldn’t,” or that something was “impossible,” and in saying so, provided increased motivation for Mark to succeed. He would accomplish the work of two men each and every day. That provides some solace for our family that even though he passed at the chronological age of sixty, his accomplishments mirrored that of someone twice that age. His life was full and happy as long as he was busy.

Mark was so incredibly generous and selfless. He gave of himself wholeheartedly to me and our children, but also to our extended family and friends. If you asked a favour of Mark, you could guarantee that he would help, and get the job done quickly. His physical strength was balanced by a soft and generous nature.

Mark was a social man. He loved people. As soon as you met him, he was an instant friend for life. He knew so many people, met so many people, and could strike up a conversation with anyone. There was no generational gap with Mark; he was as comfortable and at ease in conversation with children as he was with older adults. He was a natural mentor and father figure to many.

I am truly aware of how blessed my life has been with Mark. I could never have asked for a more supportive and loving partner. There was not a day in my life that I ever questioned his love for me. During these difficult days ahead, I’m sure I will hear his voice telling me, “Don’t worry Nursey, it will all work out”. When I falter, I will draw strength from him.

And for his parenting skills? His love for his children was fierce. He was always energetic and fun, the “spark plug” of our family. He was the epitome of a father - he was present, knowledgeable, and patient. He was involved with his kids daily and he nurtured their love and respect for nature. From the early years of rides on the snow machine sleigh or on the trailer behind the quad, to fishing trips and frog and turtle spotting, and then in the later years, coaching them in hockey, moving them to and from university, and most recently, helping them in renovating their homes. We had a family group chat daily, which was so wonderful to stay connected. Our bond was so strong. I look forward to seeing small glimpses of Mark through the personality traits of our kids. He was so incredibly proud of each and every one of them. He always greeted them with a big bear hug. Mitch, Leah, and Lindy will miss him dearly, and they aspire to bring Mark with them throughout their everyday lives through their selfless actions. They are so proud and fortunate to call him their father. He has left a lifetime of beautiful memories for us to cherish and these will help us heal.

I would be remiss not to mention Mark’s love for his dogs. Laker was his best buddy. You would rarely see Mark in his truck without his big, furry, golden friend in the seat next to him.

Mark leaves to mourn his mother Marlene Leroux and step father Frank Leroux, his siblings Kim, Karen, Shayne, Shawn, and their families. Also saddened by this loss are his in-laws, Myron and Louise Bowen, and Sheryl’s siblings, Shelley, Lori, Curt, and their families. Mark will be reunited in Heaven with his father, John Bailey.

I speak for our whole family in thanking the community for the outpouring of love and support. From cards, texts, food, flowers, and thoughtful acts of kindness, we are truly overwhelmed. It is a true testament to Mark’s character, and how incredibly loved he is. This too, provides us with comfort.

Acknowledging the restrictions that Covid has imposed, and the difficulty of boat access for some, we felt strongly in our hearts that the best way to honour Mark was to celebrate his life in the place he loved most. We will have a “come & go” on August 15th, 2020 from 1-5pm at the Bailey Camp. We encourage Mark’s friends and loved ones to come honour his life with shared stories, memories, drinks. There will be limited parking, so please feel free to boat pool. For those that are unable to attend, please set aside a moment to toast Mark’s incredible life.

Going forward, flowers are gratefully declined. If friends so desire, donations to the Lake of the Woods District Hospital Foundation in memory of Mark would be greatly appreciated.