- It is with heavy hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of Mark Porter Dodge, age 64. Mark passed away on June 13th, 2024, peacefully at home in his sleep, succumbing to heart failure. Mark was a devoted family man whose greatest joy came from spending time with his family, the ones he loved most.
Mark was born in Halifax, Nova Scotia, to the late Olive Marie (Porter) Dodge and Charles Lloyd "Bud" Dodge.
Mark grew up in Fall River, residing on Lake Thomas. He graduated from Sackville High School in 1978, Saint Mary's University (Bachelor of Commerce) in 1982, and Mount Saint Vincent University (Bachelor of Public Relations) in 1984. While attending the Mount, a long-time friend, Brian, introduced Mark to Susan while they were working for Campus Police together. It was love at first sight; soon after they began dating and their story began. Three years later, Mark and Susan married, built a home in Fall River and started their family.
Mark's illustrious career in the Oil Industry began in 1985. He joined Texaco, and his exceptional performance led him to a new opportunity with Ultramar (now Valero Energy). As an Account Manager (Wholesale & Commercial for the Atlantic Region), Mark's dedication and passion for Valero were unwavering. His meticulous attention to detail and deep sense of responsibility were his trademarks. Mark was not just a colleague but also a mentor, generously sharing his expertise and a leader who inspired others with his integrity and work ethic. His commitment to excellence was evident throughout his 38-year tenure, leaving a lasting impact on each company he served and earning the respect and admiration of all who had the pleasure of working with him. Mark retired on September 1st, 2023, from Valero Energy.
Mark was a sports enthusiast from a young age. His passion for athletics began playing hockey as a child for the Riverlake Hockey Club and continued his love for the game well into high school. Naturally, Mark followed in his dad’s footsteps as a die-hard Detroit Red Wings hockey fan- like father, like son. He played Lacrosse for the Sackville Lakers Lacrosse team during high school and university. Mark played ball hockey for the Titans Ball Hockey team throughout university, winning a championship title. Mark was also an avid skier, taking part in organizing two ski trips to Mont-Sainte-Anne during University. His true passion was playing the game of golf for over 30 years. Throughout these years, Mark served two years on the executive committee at Oakfield Golf & Country Club, where he was an active member.
Mark was deeply committed to volunteer work. He dedicated his time to coaching each of his four children's sports teams for many years and held various administrative positions in these sports (Bedford Blues Hockey, Scotia & Suburban Soccer, Nova Central Ringette, Lockview High School Football). He also participated in the "Head For The Hills" Ski Challenge, where he and his Ultramar co-workers raised over $247,000 for the QEII Foundation over eleven years. Mark's volunteer service extended to major sporting events like the 1995 Labatt Brier, 2003 Nokia Brier, 1998 Memorial Cup, 2000 Memorial Cup, and 2005 The Roar of the Rings Olympic Trials and 2019 Memorial Cup. However, his most memorable volunteer experience and claim to fame was with the Lockview High School - Prom Committee for his youngest daughter's Grade 12 Prom.
The family gatherings for holidays and birthdays, vacations, taking his “perfect” (Mark’s words) dog Marley for walks, hot summer days swimming in the pool, bonfires in the backyard with a nice glass of wine, taking the grandkids on the John Deere lawn tractor, and of course, making his world-famous seafood chowder at Christmas time were some of his happiest moments. Mark’s pride in his children and grandchildren was immeasurable. He was his children's and grandchildren's biggest supporter. Mark never missed an opportunity to attend their sports, activities and events. His loud presence on the sidelines, clapping, cheering, and encouraging, was a familiar sight.
Always supportive and willing to lend a hand. Strong-willed and stood by his opinions. He got it done, and we loved him for it! Mark will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His zest for life, quick wit, and irrepressible spirit made every moment spent with Mark memorable and cherished. He always seemed invincible, a force to be reckoned with. He will forever be etched in a million moments in many lives.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation
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Abt 1960 - 2024 (64 years)
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