Since posting this announcement on our Forum I have received numerous direct emails one of which, before I left, suggested that I represent at Mark's Memorial Service all of those within SWS, and maybe even Australia, that have been touched by Mark's life's works.
I thought that a short note to the Forum would be appropriate about Mark's Memorial Service.
I had the opportunity to meet one of Mark's younger brothers and his younger sister. Stories of their family and childhood were testimony to Mark's work.
At the Service Paula wanted people to take to the pulpit and talk about how they knew Mark. Around 30 or so people did so. I hadn't planned to but felt compelled to when so many took up the invitation. Being the only international visitor I felt like I was representing Australia but also felt that I gave some insight to all his local friends how far and wide his works reached.
The majority of attendees were his neighbours from up and down the street in the two suburbs in which he and Paula lived while in Phoenix. Their stories about Mark were so consistent from one to the other. They really confirmed who he was, a genuine and deep person who wasn't satisfied with skin deep discussion. He brought the best out people just by knowing him from a neighbourly chat in the street.
One of his 'adopted' daughters of 37 years gave the deepest character endorsing testimony about Mark. It was most appropriate and touching. Needless to say, nearly all were reaching for handkerchiefs and tissues.
It was a privilege and an honour to be in attendance but I, and I'm sure all in attendance, couldn't help but feel the world had been robbed far too soon of a great contributor that still had so much more value to add to other people's lives.
Thank you all for your emails of support but Paula, Mark's wife, needs it far more. Please feel free to email her on
paula@paulatwebb.com with any supportive comments, even about how Mark's material has helped you.
Regards
Gary
