Mark Steven Varey

Mark Steven Varey

July 31, 1952 – July 28, 2024

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mark Steven Varey, who left us peacefully at Toronto General Hospital on July 28, 2024. Born in Toronto, Ontario, on July 31, 1952, Mark lived a life rich in joy, creativity, and passion.

Mark grew up in Toronto and spent many happy moments at his childhood cottage in Muskoka, Ontario. His deep love for the great outdoors was evident through his fondness for canoeing, fishing, camping, and skiing, activities he particularly enjoyed in his younger years. He valued his time spent at Algonquin Provincial Park with his family and later passed on this love for the outdoors to his own children, creating lasting memories and fostering a shared appreciation for nature.

Mark had a love for animals that began in childhood, with many beloved pets and a lifelong passion for rescuing and caring for animals. This deep affection for animals was something he passed on to his children, who shared in his love for them. Mark also had a strong appreciation for music, especially The Beatles, which he enjoyed sharing with his family and friends. He also greatly enjoyed following his favorite sports teams and players, especially the Maple Leafs and Blue Jays. Mark’s curiosity and zest for life shone through in his love for learning new things. He was a history buff, enjoyed spending time in his garden, and liked cooking on the barbecue. He always appreciated the simple joys in life and valued his time with loved ones.

Mark began his career as a Survey Engineer for the Foundation Company of Canada during the construction of the C.N. Tower in Toronto. He took immense pride in being part of such a significant project and was honored to work alongside his father, who was a General Supervisor responsible for the tower’s layout and leveling. Later, Mark moved to Regina, Saskatchewan, to train as a carpenter. He graduated from the Saskatchewan Technical Institute in 1983 and embarked on a distinguished career as a finish carpenter.

Much of his career was dedicated to Muskoka, where he applied his craftsmanship to build and enhance numerous cottages in the area. His work left a lasting legacy of exceptional quality and skill, earning high regard from those who had the pleasure of working with him. In his later years, Mark found great fulfillment in painting, where his attention to detail and creativity were evident. He took satisfaction in the quality of his work and enjoyed expressing his artistic side.

Mark was also known for his engaging storytelling, sharing captivating tales from his own life experiences. Whether embellishing details for effect or recounting humorous anecdotes, his stories were always entertaining and left a lasting impression on those who heard them.

Mark is survived by his devoted wife, Sherry Lynne Varey, with whom he shared a deep and loving bond. He is also survived by his children, Lindsay McGill and her husband James, and Chris Varey, both of whom he was immensely proud. He is also survived by his first wife, MaryAnn Gonneau, the mother of his children. Mark is remembered by his extended family and was predeceased by his parents, Lennard Alvin Varey and Gloria Logue, and his beloved brother Dave Varey.

While no formal service will be held, friends and family are warmly encouraged to celebrate Mark's life in their own meaningful ways. Condolences and reflections can be shared on the website www.reynoldsfuneral.com.

In lieu of traditional gestures, please consider making a donation to your local Ontario SPCA and Humane Society at https://ontariospca.ca or visit Canadian Blood Services to find out how to donate blood locally. Mark received blood donations during his final days and would have appreciated contributions to the blood bank.