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Mark Bishop

Image by Nick Andréka

MARK WILLIAM BISHOP

August 24, 1946 - September 7, 2019

Mark passed away peacefully on September 7th, 2019 with his wife Alice Brown and family by his side after a long two-year journey following a massive stroke on September 7th, 2017. Regardless of the challenges he faced, he consistently demonstrated strength, courage and good humour. Mark was someone who could make you laugh a little louder and smile a little bigger.

 

Mark is survived by his daughters Michelle Bishop (Jared) and Chantal Bishop; son Erik Bishop;  stepson Charles Brown (Shalla); stepdaughters Ashley Brown (Eddie) and Julianne Brown (Mike); grandchildren Sienna Bater, Peyton Brown, Taiya Brown, Hudson Kee and Gia Belik; and stepsister Wilma. Mark is predeceased by his father William Bishop; mother Mary McCreedy; stepfather James Allan McCreedy and stepbrother Blythe.

Mark was passionate about technology and computer science. After graduating with a Bachelor of Computer Science as well as a Bachelor of Education from the University of Manitoba, he began teaching at Selkirk High School in 1973.  He started working at Red River College in Information Technology in 1980 and eventually moved into the role of Chief Technology Officer, a testament to his hard work and perseverance. His pursuit of knowledge did not end with retirement.  He continued to work in technology while exploring other hobbies such as photography and the culinary arts.  His passion for whipped cream was unmatched.

Mark actively studied martial arts throughout this life including Judo, Aikido and Shotokan Karate. One of his proudest moments was when he received his Nidan (2nd degree black belt) in 2006.  In 2013, his love for martial arts extended to ‘Little Ninjas’, a class he co-developed and taught to introduce kids to Shotokan Karate, a natural fit for someone like Mark who embodied all the characteristics of a great teacher.

Mark was truly an exceptional person.  Intelligent, kind-hearted, compassionate, open-minded, inquisitive, quick witted, good humored and a loyal friend.  He was a “Jack of all trades”; construction worker, electrician, plumber, painter, carpenter and sometimes mechanic. No job was too big or too difficult.  He would come up with ingenious solutions to complex problems; some involving intricate database design, others simply requiring the liberal application of adhesives.

Mark was blessed to have so many dedicated and compassionate health care professionals. Thanks to the staff of the Intensive Care Unit at the St. Boniface Hospital and to Dr. Nick Hajidiacos. Thank you to the staff at the Stroke Rehabilitation Unit at Riverview Health Centre, especially Sherie Gray and Adriana Moreno. Special thanks to Dr. Nancy Dixon and Physician Assistant Ambereesh Pandey of Lodge Five West at Deer Lodge Centre. Thanks to manager of resident care Andrea Thiessan; and clinical resource nurse Sheri Clow. Thanks to the nursing staff, especially Ida, Katherine, Jacob, Tanis, Thelma, Luna, Judy, and Wringle. Heartfelt thanks to the health care aides; physiotherapist Avegail Albrecht; occupational therapist Julie Braga; speech language pathologist Lexa Ramsey; dietician Amy Campbell; recreation facilitator Lisa Bailey; social worker Sandra Tower Pace; spiritual care Chris Salstrom and Jonathan.

Deep appreciation to Mark’s roommate, Brian Elke, and to Joy Estebal for their constant encouragement.

Thanks to Jane Dick, Greg James and Greg Steidl for their support and steadfast friendship.

 

Friends and relatives are encouraged to share in a photo-tribute, eulogy, stories, and condolences for the family by commenting in the comments section of this page.


Mark’s life will be celebrated at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, September 14, 2019 at 603 Wellington Crescent at Academy Road (Unitarian Church) with Monsignor Maurice Comeault the celebrant.

In lieu of flowers, contributions, in Mark's memory, could be made to the Heart and Stroke Foiundation of Manitoba.

ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

Memories, Stories and Condolences

 

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Kathleen Dickinson

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

Words seems so feeble at times like these. Love is a bond that death cannot part, I am one of the many lives Mark touched with his intellect, humor and a shared love of desserts.  Hope you’re resting easy and enjoying whipped cream ❤

John Graeb

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

Lisa-Maj Roos (cousin)

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

Good night, Sweetheart. Sushi dates will never be the same. With a laugh bigger than life and a heart to match, you will never be forgotten. You done good.

Julie Bubnick

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

 Mark was a neighbour and fellow volunteer in Linden Woods, where he became the first full-time General Manager at the community centre AFTER he retired.  His energy, varied interests, and zest for knowledge always amazed me.  It was a pleasure to know him and to work with him.  He will be missed.

Gordon and Marilyn Mutter

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

As Marilyn and I (Gordon) were not aware of the health issues that Mark faced over the last two years we were shocked and saddened to read of his passing.  I knew Mark from our high school days and it took about fifteen years thereafter to reconnect.  It was our children's hockey in Charleswood that brought us together again.  Throughout all the practices, meetings and games it allowed me to really get to know Mark.  Mark always had a smile on his face, warmth in his heart and he was the first one to reach out if you needed a hand, a problem solved or just someone to talk to.  I gave up teasing Mark with "verbal jabs and one liners", as he always had the final retort.  I fondly remember riding the bus with Mark and the hockey team to tournaments outside the city.   These were special events for all of us. We knew he would be the "life of the party" and time passed quickly with Mark on the bus.  Wishing that we could have seen Mark again.  Our sincere condolences to all of Mark's family.  Gordon and Marilyn Mutter

Cathryn

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

Rest in peace, my cousin.  Mark was so easy to talk to, always listened with a compassionate ear.  Some of the first memories of Mark were when I was a young teen visiting Aunt Mary, and Mark's computer books were all over the place.  I had always admired that he not only had the brain power, but the humility to go along with it.  I remember him coming to a dinner at my dad's house - unfolding his long, lanky frame out of a teeny tiny car.  We laughed, and I think he was a bit annoyed at that.  He always spoke to my sister just like he would anyone else - which, in my books, speaks volumes.  Say, 'hi' to my Mom - and all our Aunts & Uncles for me, Mark. It was a pleasure knowing you. 

Franklin Hodgson

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

Mr. Bishop was my first computer teacher in Selkirk.  He was an inspiration to all that he taught in the early days of computers.  It was an honour to have known him.  My condolences to the Bishop family.    -Franklin

Margareta St. Louis

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

Rest in Peace, cousin Mark. Love and condolences for his family and friends.

Barb (Humphreys) D'Avignon

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

My sincerest condolences to Mark's entire family.  I spent many hours in our younger years together at school and at the "Chatterbox" restaurant.  Always a gentleman.  Had a lot of fun in those days with many lasting memories.  We always reconnected at school reunions and Mark never changed.  I know he will be missed by many. Barb (Humphreys) D'Avignon

Cheryl Edross

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

My condolences to the Bishop Family.  Thanks for sharing this beautiful and touching tribute to your Father, Michelle & Family. Treasuring memories will provide you comfort now and forever.

Ron Hofman

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

Who’s life wasn’t touched in some way by Mark for anyone who knew him? Through our relationship at Red River College, he influenced me to pursue a degree in Business Computing at the University of Winnipeg. He saw potential in everyone, and brought out the best in his fellow workmates. RIP Mark. I was blessed to know you. Our deepest condolences to your family and friends. Ron & Cecile Hofman

Rob Clairmont

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

I worked with Mark for a short time at Red River College.  When Mark and his boss interviewed me for the job, Mark asked me where I expected to be in 5 years and I replied "in your position".  After a good laugh we never looked back.  Mark always had a quick retort to any given situation.  Looking at that smirk on his face in the accompanying  photo, I almost expect him to shoot one of those retorts at me.  One thing that sticks out about Mark for me, was his constant hand flapping while he talked.  I often wanted to duct tape his hands down to see if he was still capable of talking.  The world is a darker place without his shining humor to lighten it up.  Gonna miss ya, Mark.

Sandra Chapko

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

I had the pleasure of working with Mark at Elections Canada. His ethics, knowledge and patience made the work go smoothly. It was his personality that made the work experience a pleasure. Mark often spoke fondly of his wife Alice and his family. My deepest condolences to the friends and family of Mark.  He will be deeply missed. 

Louie Girden

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

I worked with Mark for about 22-24 years at Red River College Computer Services department.  He was a man with great vision to get the College computerized.  I remember for one of his birthdays, I got him a huge birthday card and got all the women on the 4th floor to put on lipstick and kiss the card.  I remember Paul M. (seventh floor) he even put on lipstick for this and kissed the card.  The expression on Mark's face was priceless when he opened the card.  I will never forget that day.  I will never forget you Mark.  Thank you for all you did for me.  You were the best Manager/Director/CTO I had ever worked for.  I will miss you dearly.  RIP Mark.  My sincerest condolences to his family.    

Maegan

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

I will always remember being at the family cottage when Michelle and I were about 15. He was napping in the easy chair in the living room and kept snoring himself awake. We thought it was the funniest thing we’d ever seen! RIP Mr B

Matt and Alana

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

And who didn't get their computer fixed by Mark? Or receive burned DVD's of movies or television shows? He was the original Netflix! Among his many martial arts, Mark had also mastered the art of generosity. A sweet man with a sweet tooth. I assume he is getting his moustache wet with a Kahlua and milk right now in paradise. 
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