Mark Wilson
It is with tremendous sadness and heavy hearts that the family of Mark Daniel Wilson announces his passing on Saturday, April 19, 2025 at the age of 57, in his home in Kitchener, Ontario.
Devoted husband to Sandra, his beloved partner of 34 years, and a proud father to his sons, Devin and Wave. His pride deepened with the arrival of his grandchildren in March 2018, Jenna and Isaac, who adored their “Poppy.” It was a role he cherished deeply, whether fixing toys, telling silly jokes, or sparking fits of laughter with his gentle humour.
Born in St. Thomas, Ontario on September 10, 1967, Mark was the eldest son of Ken and Mary Wilson and a proud big brother to Alan and Brian.
Mark’s life reflected love, laughter, and a commitment to lifting others up. He was someone whose quiet strength, generous spirit, and gentle laugh made the world around him better and brighter. Always ready with a helping hand, a listening ear, or a warm chuckle, Mark lived a life rooted in kindness, family, nature and a love of music.
Being a father was his greatest joy, and he welcomed his sons’ friends into his life as if they were his own, making memories that will be cherished forever. His role as a scout leader alongside his boys further deepened their bonds, as he shared his lifelong love for archery, camping, hiking, and the great outdoors.
After attending public school in Sparta, Ontario he graduated from Central Elgin Collegiate Institute in 1986 before pursuing Computer Science studies at post-secondary institutions in Kitchener-Waterloo. It was there that he met the love of his life, Sandra (née Haley), whose passions and creativity mirrored his own. They married on August 18, 1990, beginning a partnership marked by love and friendship.
Mark and Sandra built a beautiful life together, welcoming their son Devin Alexander Wilson on June 28, 1991, and their second son, Wave (née Connor Christopher Wilson), on February 10, 1994. Music flowed through their home and their lives. Mark’s love for the organ, and all things musical inspired his children, who each found their own paths in music, whether teaching piano or playing guitar.
Over a career spanning more than three decades, Mark became a respected leader in the IT field. His calm patience, sharp analytical mind, and steady guidance made him a trusted figure in every role he held—from his early years with Cedar Creek Networking Inc. to his position at D2L, where he played a vital role in the company, particularly through the tumultuous years of the pandemic. Mark brought the same dedication and pride to his work as he did to every part of his life. Even after long, stressful days, he never hesitated to help others, whether solving a computer problem or offering patient support to a friend in need. His good humour and generosity shone through in everything he did.
Outside of work, Mark found joy in many simple pleasures: taking rides on the antique John Deere tractor at his parents’ farm near Aylmer and spending precious time with his family. He also loved travel, especially when it included exploring the beautiful outdoors. When he travelled to Ecuador to celebrate his 25th wedding anniversary with Sandra, he found the mountain top villages spectacular and an experience of a lifetime.
Despite lifelong health challenges from Addison’s Disease, Mark’s resilience and optimism never wavered. He was incredibly supportive of everyone he knew and found the positives in any situation. Those who met Mark, even once, always remarked on his positivity, kindness, and genuine spirit.
Mark is survived by his beloved wife, Sandra; their children, Devin (Nikki) and Wave; his treasured grandchildren, Isaac and Jenna; his parents, Mary and Ken Wilson; his brothers, Alan (Kathryn) and Brian (Renee) Wilson; his parents-in-law Roland and Chris Haley, his brother-in-law, Andrew Haley; his Aunt Betty Rewbotham (Charlie), Aunt Diane O’Brien (Denny), and Uncle John Wilson (Mary); and his many Wilson cousins and nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his uncles Dennis Wilson (Rona) and George Wilson.
Mark was cremated, and a private family graveside service will be held at Parkview Cemetery. A tribute service to honour his life will be held at Plains Baptist Church, 6071 Fairview Rd, St. Thomas, where he grew up, on May 3, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. Refreshments and conversation to follow. A celebration of life will also take place at his brother-in-law’s property in Bright on June 8, 2025 (time to be announced).
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Canadian Addison Society would be appreciated and may be arranged through the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S., Waterloo, at www.erbgood.com or by calling 519-745-8445.