June 17, 1931 - February 12, 2024
Marc passed away peaceful at Mission Creek Landing in Kelowna at the age of 92, with his daughter Diana by his side.
He is predeceased by his parents Rudolph and Analiese, his brother Rolly (Josie) and nephew Russel (Audrey), and his longtime friend Jerry Coupel with whom he shared his birthday and many adventures.
He is survived by his first wife, Sophie and their daughters Diana and Linda. He is fondly remembered by a large family and a wide circle of friends, all of whom were touched by his infectious nature, a good story and a warm heart.
Marc was well known for his long, entertaining stories, his sense of humour, his loyalty, and a knack for telling it like it is. He always told you the truth even if it wasn't what you wanted to hear and you always knew where you stood with him!
He liked to fondly reminisce about his many friends, life in the Yukon, River Boats, and the White Pass Railway, to name a few. And closest to his heart, he took extreme pride in his two daughters, for whom he figured he had bragging rights as the luckiest dad in the world. Of course, his daughters agree!
He had a varied and interesting career beginning in 1950. He worked on the Steamers Casca, Tutshi, and Whitehorse, at Dept of Defense, then back to freight until 1960 when he transferred to the White Pass rail division.
During the summers of 1969 and 1970 he operated the 40 passenger Schwatka boat. He worked for the White Pass rail as conductor/engineer until 1977. In his words "The hardest work I ever did took place on the boats but I don't think I ever loved anything more than the time I spent on the river". His second love was for the railway.
In 1977, Marc moved to Kelowna, where he spent the remainder of his life enjoying the warmer weather and cultivating another set of lasting friendships. He was a longtime member of Masonic Lodge #46, the Okanagan Yukoners Association, Kelowna Seniors Club, Okanagan Antique Power Club.
In retirement, he loved playing cribbage, billiards, working on steam engines and his Florida winters, spent ten pin bowling, playing harmonica and Blue Grass music.
His unwavering feistiness and stubbornness had served him well throughout his life. And even in his waning months, he was a model of strong will and sheer determination right up until the end of his journey here on earth.
All whom he loved dearly will never forget his tenacity, wit, charm, sentiment, undying love and caring for them; including his many surrogate daughters who fondly knew him as their Yukon dad, train dad or just dad.
A Celebration of Life will occur with details to be determined. Everyone who remembers him is asked to celebrate Marc's life in their own way. Raising a glass of their favorite drink in his memory would be quite appropriate.
Marc's daughter Diana would like to extend a special thanks to Dr. Ahmed and the team at Mission Creek Landing Care Home for their outstanding care and generous support during Marc's final days.