MARK GUY RATHWELL

Mark Guy Rathwell passed away suddenly and peacefully with his family by his side at the age of 67 years.

Mark was pre-deceased by his parents Agnes and Charles (Chas) Rathwell. He will be forever missed by his wife Cecilia (Cec); sons Sean and Patrick; sister Roxanne with her husband Fraser and three children, Luke, Riley and Zach; his childhood friends of more than 60 years and their partners, Lorne Gibson (Ellen), Stewart Elston (Judy), Ian Duncan (Linda), Serge Paseschnikoff (Marianne), Bruce Lousley, and Jim Geddes; and numerous extended family and close friends and co-workers.

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Born in Carberry, MB on July 30, 1953, his family moved into their home in River Heights when he was 5 years old.  Mark spent his summers as a young boy and teenage years at Grand Beach, at times getting into situations that would amusingly garner the attention of the local constabulary.  With an affinity for the natural world, he later pursued Agricultural Studies at University of Manitoba with the goal of becoming a veterinarian. In the summer he worked up North at the Jenpeg Generating Station as a postman and later as a ‘Summer Stupid’ at the University Agriculture Centre.  After graduating with a BSc, he discovered that he had a passion and talent in Sales. He particularly loved the social aspect of his newly chosen field and decided to follow his heart. 

Mark started with Brenntag (formerly) StanChem in Winnipeg in 1978 before joining Canada Colors and Chemicals (CCC) in 1986.  Mark enjoyed a fulfilling career with CCC leading up to his retirement in January of 2016. Throughout this time and continuing to his last day, he developed close bonds with colleague Dan Ptolemy (and spouse Donna), his co-workers and many, many long-lasting friendships including customers Terry Yee (and spouse Diane).

Mark always had ‘happy feet’ which lead him to his match on the dance floor. After one disco dance with Cec, the two fell madly in love and recently shared their 40th wedding anniversary. Through all the years they enjoyed spending as much time as possible with family and friends, whether it be through all their travels, golf trips, river cruises, dinner parties, or simple backyard barbeques. The couple loved travelling in their retirement and were looking forward to an upcoming excursion with Craig Cormack, Sheryl Shore-Silverberg, and Derek Hay to Portugal.

Together, Mark and Cec built a loving home where they raised two sons, Sean and Patrick.  Mark taught both boys to hunt and fish, paint their thumbs some shade of green (garden), to respect the natural world, and to carry a thankful and humble disposition.  He took great pride in stocking their toolboxes, and randomly giving unsolicited advice on how to use each item within. He always found ways to express the pride he held for his family and would speak lovingly of them at every opportunity. 

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Mark was well-liked by many and will be remembered not just for his great smile and laugh, but also for his big heart. His authenticity, and hospitable and comforting nature ignited a sense of inclusion within everyone he met.  One forum to be with like-minded people was at the Gyro Club – a social group with an emphasis on fun, friendship, and networking. President from 1989-1990, Mark and Cec made many deep connections, and shared many laughs with fellow Gyros & Gyrettes over the years.  Mark, along with Tim Paul and other Gyros members, were heavily involved with organizing the annual Fish and Game Dinner, where he became the (un)official ticket caller for the draws – a position that usually received friendly heckles.

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Mark had many passions and interests as they were additional opportunities to be involved with others.   He cherished the countless friendships he made and laughs shared along the way on his hunting and fishing trips. His first love was hunting- from birds to big games.  In recent years, he was so proud to hunt with his son Patrick.  The two would bond over their annual trips to Rock Lake/Glenora, Langruth/Amaranth, and South Dakota.  He had a lot of fun playing golf and was involved with a few groups.  Mark spent many hours woodcarving in his workshop and with his woodcarving clubs. 

He really could not get enough of the outdoors.   At home, he was constantly working on his yard.  During the day, you would most likely find him puttering in the garden or carving in his home workshop. He took great pride in being able to share with others what he had worked on so hard - like freshly picked vegetables or his latest carving project.  

Mark was larger than life and with his flamboyant personality, he was always the life of the party.  He was a person that loved to share moments, laughter and love. Mark was always first to offer a helping hand to anyone who needed it.

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In keeping with Mark’s wishes, a cremation has taken place, and a private Celebration of Life will be held on August 27, 2021. Mark’s family kindly requests that all of his friends and relatives take a few minutes to honour his memory by watching the photo-biography above. Please, also consider sharing your own photos, memories, and stories by making use of the comment section on this page.

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​In lieu of flowers a donation may be made to a charity of your choice.

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ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

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