Obituary of Mark Blair Thomas

August 18, 1952 – Calgary, Alberta

August 20, 2023 - Calgary, Alberta

Mark Thomas was born on August 18, 1952, in Calgary, Alberta. He was a man whose life was defined by his love for his family, his passion for baseball, and his profound contributions. Mark passed away on Sunday, August 20, 2023, at the age of 71 years, due to complications following surgery, with his beloved wife Lorie and their devoted son by his side.

Mark’s academic journey took him from Carlton University in Ottawa, where he completed his bachelor’s degree in 1975, to the University of Calgary, where he earned his master’s degree in 1977. His unique blend of expertise as a geologist and reservoir engineer marked him as an exceptional talent in the oil and gas industry. He dedicated four decades to his profession, working for companies like Shell and Enerplus. Mark’s brilliance in understanding the interaction between porous media and fluids led to groundbreaking research that not only advanced in the field but also sparked philosophical inquires. His insights and objective approach enriched countless scientific discussions, leaving an indelible mark on his colleagues’ professional growth.

Beyond his professional achievements, Mark’s heart belonged to his family. He married his beloved wife Lorie on April 30, 1977, in Cardston, Alberta. There together they embarked on adventures around the world, creating cherished memories in the most remarkable places. Mark’s passion for baseball was deeply rooted, evident in his days as a pitcher, leading local little league teams and making headlines in newspapers. This love was passed down to his sons, and he enthusiastically coached their baseball and basketball teams. His coaching prowess earned him an invitation to lead BYU Provo baseball summer camps, where his impact on younger athletes extended even further.

Mark’s love for baseball was so profound that he established a second home in Pheonix, Arizona, a place where he felt truly alive. He relished the warm Arizona climate, spending his days biking, swimming, attending sporting events, or indulging in his wife’s love of shopping.

A large and important part of his life centred around his devotion and kinship to his saviour, Jesus Christ. Because of his understanding of the science of the earth and its order, his curiosity led to his study and conversion to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Mark especially enjoyed his temple services where he felt peace.

Mark Blair Thomas will be forever remembered as a devoted family man, a brilliant mind, a coach, a mentor, and a lover of life. His legacy lives on in the hearts of his family, friends, and colleagues. This memory will forever inspire us to embrace our own passions, cherish our loved ones and approach life with the same objective curiosity that he exemplified.

Though he has left the earthly realm, Mark’s spirit will forever remain in the hearts of all those fortunate enough to have known him. May he rest in eternal peace, forever surrounded by those whom he loved and the memories they shared.

Mark’s legacy is one of love, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to his family. He is survived by his loving wife of 46 years Lorie, and their three children, Jared Thomas of Calgary, Chad (Meg) of Cochrane and Shelby Livingstone (Matthew) of Sydney, Australia; grandchildren, Ryden, Avarie, and Logen of Calgary, Austin, Sierra and Zackary of Cochrane and Madilyn and Lexi of Sydney Australia; he is also survived by his daughter-in-law Tracey Thomas of Cochrane.

Funeral Services will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (1100 Gleneagles Dr, Cochrane, AB), on Friday August 25, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. Reception to follow in the Cultural Hall at the Church. Family and friends who are unable to attend in person are invited to join Mark’s service streamed live (see below) on the day of the service. For those who are unable to view live, a recording of the service will be posted. Condolences, memories, and photos can also be shared and viewed here.

In living memory of Mark Thomas, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Cochrane, 369 Railway Street, Cochrane, AB T4C 2E2, Telephone: 403-932-4740.

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