Obituary of Mark Oliver

The family of Mark Oliver invites you to a Come and Go Celebration of Life at 381 Lakeshore Drive, Desbarats, on Saturday, July 31, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. Memorial donations to the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre Lodge Fund, a place of comfort for Mark throughout his cancer journey or the charity of your choice.

On April 4, 2020, at home surrounded by the love of his family, Mark peacefully took his final rest after a long and courageous battle with cancer. He kept his sense of humour and wit, with many laughs shared in his final days.

Loving friend and companion to his wife Rose; his biggest advocate and the glue that held it all together. Devoted and cherished father to Michelle (Mike) and Chris (Haley) and fur baby Ginger. Son of Don and Wilma, loving brother to Donna Karen (Jeff), Donny, Kenny (Sandra), and Pam. Uncle to Alex, John, Jakob, Jessica, Tyler, Josh, and Scott.

Much of Mark’s life was dedicated to his children. He made the most of his health challenges, spending the time he had at home readily available as a cook, chauffeur, mover, or whatever else they needed. He was proud of all that they had accomplished and was grateful for the time he got to watch them grow and live their dreams.

In his working life, Mark was devoted to everything he did. From the farm to the airport, Prouse Motors to Algoma Steel, he loved learning and teaching. After work, Mark was often found visiting neighbours, cutting grass (anyone’s grass), or puttering in his garage.

Mark would have told anyone that although he accumulated a lifetime’s worth of “toys”, it was the memories that they made with his family, friends, and neighbours especially on Lakeshore Drive that meant the most.

Always generous with his time, Mark was happiest when he was lending a helping hand. He was a go-to-guy, the first you’d call. Funny thing was you never seemed to need to call - he’d already be there.

His desire to help held true until the very end when Mark continued to participate in medical studies in hopes that his journey could help others. Our utmost gratitude to Dr. Razak and Dr. Wunder and their teams at Mount Sinai and Princess Margaret Hospital in Toronto.

Special thank you to Dr. Wilson, Dr. White, and Dr. O’Brien for their compassion and kindness. We appreciate Dr. O’Brien for her special attention to make Mark comfortable in the home in his last days. Thank you to Rochelle and the Bayshore team for their care. Additional thanks to Helen Smith for her prayers and spiritual support.

Memorial donations can be made through Northwood Funeral Home to Princess Margaret Cancer Centre Lodge Fund, a place of comfort for Mark throughout his cancer journey or the charity of your choice.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Great Northern Road, 705-945-7758).

Donations made through our website to The Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation are being directed to the Lodge Fund specifically.