Last week’s tragic chain of events that led to the death of Mark Taylor delivered a deeply grievous loss upon this city.
Professionally and personally, Abbotsford mourns a committed community supporter and a friend.
Abbotsford’s general manager of parks, recreation and culture was doing what he loved best – enjoying the outdoors – when the tragedy occurred.
Taylor was skiing near Golden, B.C. with his daughter and another man when the weather turned bad.
Taylor fell into a crevasse and perished.
Now his family, friends and the city are left with memories of the man.
Tributes have been flowing in to The News, and on social media sites, praising Taylor as a loyal public servant and a respected colleague.
Abbotsford West MLA Mike de Jong noted that much of the city’s recreational infrastructure is the result of “Mark’s vision and passion for improving the lives of families in our community.”
Abbotsford MP Ed Fast credited Taylor with leaving behind “a legacy of excellence,” while Mayor Bruce Banman said Taylor “always had a joke to share, provided encouragement for challenges and rewards for even the smallest of successes.”
Mark Duyns, of PacificSport Fraser Valley, said Taylor’s deeds will be “forever remembered.”
As the city continues to grow, and new recreational facilities are created, it is likely and fitting that one be dedicated to Taylor’s memory.
He was a man with passion, vision and a sense of humour.
Above all, he was well loved by his family, and well liked by his friends.
He will be sorely missed.
