Made it to this peak! — with Mark Bostwick

I met Mark in 1975 when I began working at IDERA where he was what this calls a “community animateur “. The description here made me laugh - IDERA was a film and publication resource that did outreach and education on national liberation struggles in what was then called the Third World. Mark was a really excellent educator - and he loved that work. We began living together that same year and married in Gibsons, BC in 1976. Although I was born and raised on the west coast, he was then on who taught me to love the mountains. We went everywhere to hike and climb, including the Maroon Bells in Colorado, Mt Hood in Oregon and dozens of other memorable trails and summits across the Pacific Northwest. I am forever grateful for that. We separated in 1986/87 but I have no regrets for the good years we spent together. I was very sad to hear of his passing and pass my condolences to his friends and those who loved him. 

my brother mark was a good, smart guy, 

What a sad day.  I had the honour of spending a lot of time with Mark these past few years, trying to convince him to eat his vegetables (without much luck) and get outside for a walk, but I've known him for 25 years and he helped me in so many ways during that time.  Taught me everything I know about being a good Planner, speaking up for those that don't have a voice and doing the hard work to create affordable housing and make sure people got the services they need and most importantly, how to get the politicians to listen.  Mark was the closest thing that I've had to a Dad.  I am going to miss him so much. Until his last days he was sharp and always ready for a debate. He was kind and considerate. And he had a great sense of humour too.  Smartest guy in the room with that twinkle in his eye that made everyone smile.  His last days were hard and I believe that he's in a better place, healthy and strong, climbing all those peaks that he remembered so fondly.  Love you Mark!

I worked alongside Mark for several years in the late 1970s. He was always a dedicated progressive with boundless energy and commitment to social, political and economic justice. He more than pulled his weight and the world is a better place because of Mark’s myriad contributions. He also had a delightful sense of humour. Mark is one of those people who give substance to one of my favourite observations: some of the very best Canadians used to be American!

Mark my friend, you are missed!

Jef Keighley

Garden Bay

I was deeply saddened and shocked to hear the news of Mark's passing. He was a lovely man, with insight and great conversational skills. An avid reader, we shared a love of books.  We got to know each other during the Covid years and that was an interesting and gentle/kind way of sharing our thoughts and ideas. He had an inquiring mind and was interested in many things including community and the environment. 

Living in the neighbourhood meant that we could drop by and visit from time to time. That was a precious gift.

My heart goes out to all who knew and loved him. He will be missed.