Michael Wark

Tribute

Mike was born on June 20, 1948, in Jersey City, New Jersey, to C.F. and Maud Wark. He graduated from the University of Central Missouri, where he met Kathy and earned a master’s degree in business. While in college, he was a founding member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity, and some of his closest and lifelong friendships began during those years. Mike enjoyed a long career in sales with several different companies, a career that took his family across the country and gave them the opportunity to live in five different states. Their final move was to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, where the family lived for 32 years. Upon retirement, Mike and Kathy moved to Denver to be closer to family. Mike was preceded in death by his parents; his older sister, Ellen Dycus; and his younger brothers, Fred and Matthew Wark. Mike delighted in his family above all else and could talk endlessly about them to his customers, friends, and anyone who would listen. He loved to travel, especially trips to the mountains to ski with his family and trips to the beach with family and friends. At the beach, he was always the first one up in the morning and the last one off the sand at the end of the day, often with a pocket full of perfect seashells to add to his growing collection. He also had a talent for art and could often be found, pen in hand, drawing a flower or sunset. He loved golf and tennis and especially valued the friendships and camaraderie he shared with the men he played with in Gettysburg for more than 25 years. He traveled around the country many times just to cheer on his son, granddaughter, or grandson as they played ice hockey. Mike was a lifelong Presbyterian and participated in Bible study classes throughout his life. He also enjoyed giving back to his communities through Habitat for Humanity and other volunteer opportunities. Mike will be remembered most for his love of family, his friendships, his enthusiasm for travel and the outdoors, and the many relationships he built throughout his life. A small memorial service will be held at Montview Presbyterian Church in Denver at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a nonprofit conservation or nature organization of your choice, a food bank of your choice, or Food Bank of the Rockies at advocate.foodbankrockies.org.

Friends & Family

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Kathy; daughter Kelly (Michael) Nordini; son Matthew (Keir) Wark; and grandchildren Lily and Grace Nordini and Colby Michael Wark.