It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of Dr. Eugene Marks (affectionately known as Gino), devoted husband of Karla Marks (nee Rayman), cherished father of Lana Marks Pulver and Kerri Marks Chetner, their spouses, Doug Pulver and Rob Chetner and adored grandfather to Benny, Chloe, Max and Lola.

Eugene was born in Winnipeg Manitoba, and was raised in Esterhazy, Saskatchewan by his parents, Harry and Jean Markovitch and was a big brother to Karen Trester (nee Markovich). His upbringing deeply influenced his commitment to his Jewish values.

Growing up in rural Saskatchewan, Eugene came from humble beginnings. He learned business by helping his parents in their General Store and how to play hockey on an outdoor frozen pond with frozen horse dung as his puck. He excelled at school in his one room schoolhouse.

He attended University of Manitoba to become a dentist and after practicing for three years attended NYU and Albert Einstein Medical Center to become an Oral Maxilla Facial Surgeon. After a short stint in Hamilton, Ontario, Eugene and family moved to Vancouver in 1970, where he formed a partnership with his brother-in-law, Perry Trester, later joined by Tony David, and they formed the practice called, Trester, Marks and David. Together they built a successful business in four different locations in the lower mainland for over 40 years and were known to have hosted the most infamous holiday parties for the dental community. What was a successful business partnership grew into a trusting and extremely close relationship. In addition to performing surgery both in office and hospital, he taught at UBC’s School of Dentistry and was a respected mentor to many. Eugene served as the Chief of Oral Maxilla Facial Surgery at Lion’s Gate Hospital in West Vancouver for many years.

Eugene’s first love was his family. He adored his wife, Karla, to whom he was married for almost 60 years. Committed to their relationship, he had a deep appreciation for his beautiful and wise life partner. He was a proud and devoted father and grandfather. His eyes lit up at the site of his daughters and any one of his grandchildren. He also loved spending time and celebrating many auspicious occasions with his belated in-laws, Benny and Evelyn Rayman and his multitude of aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews, and niece whether he was hosting them in his home or visiting them in theirs. Eugene cherished his friendships, treating his friends as though they were part of his own family.

Eugene had a zest for life. He thoroughly enjoyed pursuing his passions for hockey, both playing and watching, golf, poker, reading, opera, skiing, travelling the world and spending time in nature. He also was a respected leader in his community, serving as a Regent of Alpha Omega, a board member of several organizations and regular canvasser for Federation.

He will be fondly remembered for his profound teachings, with the favourites being to never forget the things you do, only the things you don’t and to savour life moments by taking a mental cocktail. Above all, he will be most missed for his presence, guidance, wisdom, and unwavering love.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Dr. Eugene and Karla Marks Endowment Fund, at the Jewish Foundation of Greater Vancouver, (604) 257-5100 https://jewishcommunityfoundation.com/tribute-cards/donation-form/ or the charity of your choice.