Obituary of JURISIC – Mark

JURISIC – Mark February 21, 1957– April 15, 2011 It is with deep sadness that the family announces the passing of Mark Jurisic at the age of 54 on April 15th, 2011. Mark was the beloved brother of Alexandra Jurisic, Peter Jurisic (Mark’s fraternal twin) and Stephen Jurisic and beloved uncle of Mattie Jurisic, Sam Jurisic and Max Jurisic. Life had not been as generous to Mark as he was giving of his own spirit. Mark was diagnosed with schizophrenia at the age of 30 and battled its demons for the rest of his life. Yet, Mark will be remembered for his gentle spirit, quick grin, witty responses and kind nature. Mark was always unselfish as evidenced in his wonderful role as care giver to our ailing mother Patricia Jurisic as she struggled with cancer during 2000 – 2002 (Mum passed away in March 2002). As a young man Mark was keen and courageous. Whether it was hang gliding, sailing, surfing, skiing the Gelendesprung or “off piste” at Lake Louise or bicycling to Banff (on a whim), Mark was always up to a dare. Mark was hugely loyal to his family and, as younger brother Stephen said, “He was the big brother that all little brothers wish for – he would beat up the bullies that picked on me and he also taught me how to ride a bike.” Despite schizophrenia’s grip, Mark was renowned amongst family and friends for his gardening skills. There wasn’t a plant in Calgary that Mark couldn’t name. Mark was both the worst and the best babysitter to niece Mattie and nephew Sam. He spoiled them with too much candy, popcorn, comics and treats – but at the (very late) end of the day saw them to bed wrapped tight and cozy with his love and affection. They were always thrilled to know he was coming over to take care of them. In his thirties and forties Mark was a familiar and friendly face to many in River Park where he walked his Wheaten terrier “Tully”. Mark’s health declined over the last few years and his socializations and activities became greatly diminished. Mark will be forever lovingly remembered by his family. As time goes by, the love and memories of Mark’s beautiful, tender soul will never fade. They will stay forever emblazoned in our hearts as a reminder and guide on how to live a simple, decent life of respect and dignity. Please join us for a celebration of Mark’s life at Christ Church Elbow Park (3608 – 8th Street SW, Calgary) on Thursday April 28th at 1:00 p.m. Condolences may be forwarded through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Mark’s memory may be made to the Schizophrenia Society of Alberta, #309, 8989 Macleod Trail SE, Calgary, AB T2H 0M2 (www.schizophrenia.ab.ca). In living memory of Mark Jurisic, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES Park Memorial Chapel, 5008 ELBOW DRIVE S.W. Telephone: (403)243-8200.