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Mark Allan Child
Born in South Gate, CA, lived a happy fulfilling life which sadly ended far too soon on November 8, 2013. A beloved and respected English Teacher for 23 years at both Griffiths Middle School and Downey High, he enjoyed an excellent reputation among the staff. He also inspired countless students who came to nickname him the "Grammar Nazi." He leaves behind his wife, Kitty, and his family who reside in Maryland, California and Arizona. A memorial service will be held at the Downey High School Football Field on November 23, 2013 from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the newly founded Mark Child Memorial Scholarship Fund. Please sign the guestbook at www.presstelegram.com/obits.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Mark Child was a GOOD MAN. He LOVED his wife, Kitty. He loved his students at Downey High. He Loved his work. At the end of the day I believe that is the BEST any of us can be. Mr. Child we lost a TRULY GREAT MAN when You slipped away from these surly bonds. You are MISSED <3 My Blessings and Best Wishes go to Kitty and Your Family <3
C W
November 22, 2013
Mark,
You always teased me for wanting to save all the ninth graders in your class. YOU saved every student that crossed your path with your dedication to their education and your desire to inspire them to reach their full potential. You will be missed. Rest in Peace. My prayers to you and your family.
Terri Curiel
November 21, 2013
He is and will always be the best teacher. He always strived to bring out the best in his students, not just in their work but in their life. He cared if you were having a bad day and he cared if you were having the best. No problem was ever too big or too small. I find myself now thinking how lucky I am to have been his last Graduating class. This is also very sad because no one will ever be able to have him make an impact like he did. Rest in peace Mr. Child. You are missed
Samantha Huie
November 19, 2013
I am truly blessed to have had Mark Child as a teacher at Downey High School...he is someone who, very early on, had a great deal of faith in me. He motivated and encouraged me to be the best that I can be. He truly made a lasting impression in my life and I know, wholeheartedly, that this is a tremendous loss for Downey High School. He will never be forgotten.
Nancy Girguis
November 15, 2013
Mark used his creative energy for the good of his students. He will surely be missed. My prayers and thoughts are with you.
Debbie Buchanan
November 15, 2013
U will be dearly missed.
Louisa Dorman
November 14, 2013
Mr. Child pushed me to reach my fullest potential my senior year of high school. I will forever remember him as the best English teacher I have ever had. His passing has taken a hard toll on me but I know that he has helped the world by educating students. Although his life ended far too soon, he has done his job. Let us do our jobs by passing on his teachings to others that did not have the pleasure of meeting him. Once a Viking, always a Viking!!
You will forever hold a special place in my heart Mr. Child.?
I really hope there are no grammatical errors in this!!! :)
Susan Ruvalcaba
November 14, 2013
Mr. Child made me realize that there are still teachers out there that truly care about their students and their success.
Thank you for always pushing me to do better and inspiring as a teacher! You made my one year at Downey High truly unforgettable with all the crazy grammar test :)
You will always be my favorite teacher!
Ariel Mendez
November 14, 2013
Please accept my heartfelt condolences for the loss of your loved one. May good memories provide solace for your family during this challenging time. And may God provide you the assurance that you will see your loved one again in paradise. -John 17:3
November 14, 2013
Mark pushed me to be a better teacher. I will be forever grateful for what he taught and shared with me. Downey High School will miss him dearly.
Cara Cleek
November 14, 2013
Mark was a wonderful colleague and inspiring teacher. His life has shaped our future.
Myra Hillburg
November 14, 2013
A man of laughter and inspiration. He'd pick on me every day in class but it was always with a smile and an intent to teach me something new. While looking through old emails I found this one I'd like to share:
"Hi Katie,
Glad to hear you developed some thick skin while a student of mine. I'll surely miss the delightful shade
of red you turned when called upon to solve a DOL item. Keep up the good work and be sure to stay in touch.
Mr. C"
The only teacher who taught us as though we were college students and made us laugh while doing it...you will be greatly missed Mr. C
Katie Quirk
November 14, 2013
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