Mark Fenton died suddenly and peacefully, at his home
Saturday afternoon, August 7, 2021, at the age of 75.
He was an only son, born in Halifax, Nova Scotia, July 1946,
to loving parents Margaret (Peggy) and John Hoysted Fenton
M.B.E. His father was in the Airforce and subsequently Mark lived in
many places and attended many different schools across
Canada; the last one in Pinawa, Manitoba. Mark’s first two post-secondary degrees in geology were from the University of Manitoba before moving on to University of Western Ontario.
Survived by his loving wife and soul mate Thecla Fenton, his
admiring stepsons Justin and Gregory, his cherished
grandsons Fenton (10), Everett (7), and Bromley (2).
Mark was a humble man, never boastful, ethical to a fault with
the marked characteristic of gentle kindness. He was an
exemplary role model for his stepsons who in turn honored,
respected and loved him. We were so proud of him and so
fortunate to call him ours. He will be so missed and never
forgotten.
Retirement was not easy for Mark, his whole adult life thus far
was dedicated to geology. Gradually he started to take an
interest in the house and garden and found joy in it. Following
a number of unsuccessful seasons, this year, for the first time
his vegetable garden was lush and productive. He reached a
stage of contentment and took pleasure working around his
home. An avid reader since childhood, iPad, books, and
science magazines were his constant companions.
After graduating with a PhD in Quaternary Geology from the
University of Western Ontario, Mark had a 43 year career with
the several iterations of the Alberta Geological Survey. During
his four decades as a dedicated geologist, Mark contributed
significantly to the knowledge and understanding of Alberta’s
geology through his numerous publications and extensive
involvement with geology at the regional, national and
international level. He was generous with his time and
knowledge and was an active member of the Edmonton
Geological Society, the Geological Association of Canada, the
International Quaternary Association and a member in good
standing with the Association of Professional Engineers and
Geoscientists of Alberta. Mark also taught a series of evening
geology classes at the University of Alberta. In addition to his
many presentations at professional meetings, Mark was an
enthusiastic champion of public outreach and ran field trips
and public presentations in Alberta. He was involved in the
development of natural science programming with the new
Royal Alberta Museum. His long career culminated with the Quaternary Geology Map
of Alberta, a major project that collated data for the surface
deposits in the province. He retired in 2017. During his
career, Mark was awarded several medals, including the
Committee of Provincial and Territorial Geologists Award, the
Seniors Association of Greater Edmonton Award for Science
and Technology, and the 2010 Provincial Geologist’s Medal
to name a few. In 2018, Mark was awarded the E.R. Ward
Neale Medal by the Geological Association of Canada for
sustained outstanding public outreach efforts in sharing Earth
Science with Canadians.
His enthusiasm and constant curiosity for all aspects of
natural sciences were contagious. A lover of wine and good
food, Mark was always a genial host and great
conversationalist. His friends, students, and former colleagues
will miss him dearly.
Messages and reminiscences may be sent to www.serenity.ca
A memorial service will take place on 19 August 2021 at 2pm
At Serenity Funeral Services.
10129 Princess Ave; NW
Edmonton. AB T5G 0X9
** Masks will be provided, and Guests are kindly asked to
wear one ** Donations may be made to a charity of
one’s choice or to: The Mazankowski Atrial Fibrillation
Program, University Hospital Foundation Donor Office
W.M.C.,8440-112 Street EDMONTON. AB T6G 2B7
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of FENTON Dr Mark Macdonald PhD Honours P Geo August 7 2021..
Death notice for the town of: Edmonton, Province: Alberta