We Remember
SCHAEFER, Mark Leslie
October 24, 1962 — October 30, 2024
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the unexpected loss of Mark Leslie Schaefer, who passed away on October 30, 2024, at the age of 62, while doing what he loved.
Left to hold him dear to their hearts are his beloved wife of 32 years, Jacquelen “Jackie”; their children Tanner (Ali) and Alyssa (Shawn); his mother Joyce Schaefer; mother-in-law Theresa; Uncle Don King and Barb Craig; along with many close friends and family who will miss him greatly.
He now goes to join those who passed before him, including his father Leslie Schaefer and father-in-law Wendel Zarr.
Mark was a devoted husband and father who filled his life with activity, love, and joy. A true sports enthusiast, he enjoyed baseball, hockey, working out, and skiing, sharing his passion for the slopes as a ski instructor. His kids fondly remember the “whale” 5-cent candy he’d reward them with if they made it to the bottom of the hill. Mark was also a country music fan, and he enjoyed watching CrossFit, relaxing by the pool, sipping tequila, and cracking open a can of Busch. He had a special place in his heart for his grand-dog, Cooper the Lab, and his love for Christmas and holidays was evident to all who knew him. Mark’s favourite moments included trips to Disneyland with his kids, vacations in Mexico, and family concerts, like the Jordan Davis concert he attended with his family just last weekend. His trip to Tulum last October for his daughter Alysa’s wedding was one he cherished above all. Known for his kindness, patience, and love, Mark’s memory will be treasured forever, and he will be missed beyond words.
A Memorial Service in Mark’s honour will be held at a later date. Details to be announced.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.
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Heart and Stroke Foundation Link: www.heartandstroke.ca
Condolences
Dear Jackie, Tanner, Alyssa and families, words just aren’t enough to convey my sorrow for your loss. I will remember Mark for his kindness, his laugh and the sparkle that came in to his eyes every time he spoke about you Jackie, or the kids. He was a hard worker and will leave a massive void in our district. You have a whole community holding you in our prayers and in our hearts. Mark will be missed. My very deepest condolences to you all
We are so shocked and saddened to hear of Mark’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you navigate this heart-wrenching loss.
It was such an honour and a privilege to know Mark. I could be having the worst day and Mark would be in the hallways with the biggest smile. I’ll forever be thankful for your encouraging words, check ins and kindness. You touched so many lives and were the heart of our school. Thank you for all you did, I’ll strive to show up each day how you did, full of love, kindness and generosity.
Dear Jackie, Tanner, Alyssa, and the Schaefer Family,
Please accept my heartfelt condolences on the passing of Mark. Working together in School District 23, I saw firsthand the kindness and compassion that defined him. Every time I stepped in as the coordinator for the custodial department, Mark would reach out with a call or text, asking, “How are you holding out there, buddy?” His genuine concern, making sure I wasn’t getting too frustrated and that I was managing well, was a testament to the caring, lovely person he was. He had a gift for lifting others’ spirits and always made those around him feel valued and supported. Mark was truly one of a kind, and his presence brought so much warmth to our team.
He will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure to know him. May you find comfort in your memories of him and the legacy of kindness he left behind.
With deepest sympathy,
Gil McQuary
Jackie, Alyssa, Tanner, Joyce and family,
We are so saddened to hear of Mark’s passing. We will always remember him as a warm, kind-hearted man with a infectious smile. We are thinking of you all during this difficult time and send you our love and deepest condolences.
Corey, Tracey Knorr and family
We are thinking of you and your family. May all your beautiful memories give you some peace during this difficult time.
Lidia Costa and Todd Sandyke
Joyce , Jackie , Allysa, Tanner, and relatives Have spoken to Joyce and Tanner and gave them my Condolences to all the family. Such a shock to hear Mark had passed, Like all the other condolences I too have memories of Mark from a new born baby to the wonderful man he turned out to be. He will be missed by all the family and his friends. Mark I will miss you too. affectionally (Uncle Jack)
I’m so saddened to hear another good soul has been taken too soon. My heart goes out to you, Jackie. Sending hugs xo
We are so sorry for your loss! He was truly a kind , friendly soul with a great smile. May his memory be a blessing and comfort to your hearts.
Jackie, Alyssa and Tanner I am so incredibly sorry for your loss. I have worked with Mark at the elementary school until my recent mat leave. He is one of the good ones! Mark always came in with a big cheesy grin no matter what we called him for. It could have been a clogged toilet or a piece of playground that needed fixing. He talked about all three of you every time I saw him. I always looked forward to our chats. How lucky we are that he is so loved and will be missed by so many ❤️
Dear Jackie and Family
I am sending my deepest heartfelt condolences to you all for your loss. There are no words. My prayers and thoughts are with you all.
Jackie, tanner and Alyssa, I was absolutely devastated to hear of Mark’s sudden passing. He was such a great guy to see every morning at work, and often in the caf after work. He always had a huge small, always spoke of the sunshine and good times, always showed he had such a deep love for you all, it was evident every single day. There is a gaping hole in the hearts of everyone who knew him. I can’t even imagine what you are going through, but please, if there is anything you need, just reach out! Love to you all, Jen
Joyce, Jackie,Tanner and Alyssa:
Peter and I are thinking of all of you during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you ❤️