Michel Lavigne
Publisher
Barry’s Bay – Humble. Caring. Compassionate. Consensus builder. Quiet. Radiant smile. Storyteller. Reflective.
These were common themes among all who spoke at the memorial service for Mark Willmer Thursday evening at the Paul J. Yakabuski Community Centre (PJY). Those who spoke at the service where MC John Yakabuski, Sean Conway, Dan Lynch, County Warden Peter Emon and long time friend Minister Bird to name a few.
Mark Willmer was described as a fair man. A man with a great sense of humour. Someone who loved talking to residents and hearing their stories. An outdoors man, Willmer reveled in being in nature to recharge and regain perspective. His fellow politicians lauded his ability to disagree without being disagreeable.
A large crowd filled the upstairs of the PJY, coming together to talk, remember their friend, colleague, father, brother, grandfather and partner.
One of Janet Adams’ daughters Jennifer Stevenson talked about Mark and how she got to know him and the fact that she admired him for being himself and for the love he showed to her Mother. Jennifer talked about how Janet and Mark would both carry a camera to take photos when the opportunity for a great photo came along. Mark and Janet shared many great times together. Jennifer mentioned that Mark was Janet’s coach and strong supporter of her running and he attended many if not all her Marathon races. She said while her Mother was training Mark would meet her on her run to give her strength and supply her with water or gator aide.
Jennifer also shared a heart felt message on behave of Janet. She related a story of Mark Willmer surprising Janet Adams with tickets to a Rolling Stones concert in Ottawa. When they arrived at the arena, the parking lot was empty. They drove around to see if people were parking somewhere else. It turned out they were a year early but the couple enjoyed the weekend away none the less. They did make it to the concert the following year.
Mark’s daughter Natalie took to the stage and shared many great things about her father. She said in the early years when Mark was in municipal politics he would bring her and her brother Sebastian to many community events that were happening in town. Their vacations were learning lessons with Mark always quizzing them. Natalie told an few more stories and it was clear that Mark was indeed a loving father and grandfather. She had fond memories of family gatherings and will no doubt keep them in her heart for years to come. He will be missed dearly by his loved ones.
In closing, after the special talks where over their was a light lunch served to the guests and people were invited to spend some time with Marks family members. The community showed their love and support for our late Mayor Mark Willmer.