Obituary of Mark David Westlake
Mark David Westlake, 78, passed into new life with God on June 9, 2020, surrounded by the love of his family after a brave fight against cancer. Through it all, he continued to live generously, even in the midst of his own recent struggles.
Mark spent his life in service to others. Whatever work he was doing, whether owning and running a store, delivering food, or working as a medical courier, his thoughts were always on the people in his life, those closest to him and also strangers on the street. His continual optimism and welcoming nature brightened the days of all whom he touched.
He was devoted to his family, always finding time to spend precious moments making memories together. Mark lived his faith through action, dedicating himself to his church communities in both Tucson and Show Low, serving as a volunteer and as Vice President of the Congregation Council for Abounding Grace Lutheran.
He loved spending his summers among the cool pines of Show Low, surrounded by dear friends and a stream of his children and grandchildren coming to visit. He especially loved trains and would always choose that means of travel whenever possible; the journey was just as important as the destination, both on a train and life in general.
Survived by his spouse of 46 years, Mary Monaghan; children Anne LaVigne (Jeff), Michael Westlake (Kate), and Jeannie VanSickle (Everette); and as he called them “My five beautiful, gorgeous, darling, sweet, little, innocent grandchildren,” Emma, Sarah, David, Christian and Matthew. His light and generous spirit will be carried in the hearts of all who had the privilege and honor of knowing him.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest.
The viewing and visitation will be on Tuesday June 16, 2020 from 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM at Bring's Broadway Chapel, 6910 East Broadway Boulevard, Tucson.
With the current public-health concerns, the family will be holding private funeral services at Abounding Grace Lutheran Church in Tucson. Burial will follow in Holy Hope Cemetery.
