Mark Colin Walsh

Attorney Mark Colin Walsh of Scranton passed away Tuesday at Regional Hospital surrounded by his family after a valiant three-year battle with Leukemia. He was 53 years old. Husband of the former Margaret Conaboy, he was the loving father of two daughters, Rosetta Walsh and Maggie Walsh, both of Scranton. He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph Walsh. He is survived by his mother, Joan Walsh of Scranton; mother- and father-in-law, Judge Richard and Marion Conaboy of Scranton. Also surviving are brothers, Joseph Walsh Jr. and wife, Judy of Michigan; Brian Walsh of Clarks Summit; sister, Lisa Mundt and husband, Dennis of Dunmore; Julie McCloskey and husband, Tom of Kennett Square; and many nieces and nephews.

A truly wonderful husband, father and friend, his dedication to family was well recognized and admired by all. Mark was passionate about spending time with family and fishing at his lakeside cabin. Love and laughter permeated gatherings, despite any challenges he faced. Mark's main goal in life was to make other people feel as special as he truly believed they were.

Having previously been treated for Hodgkin's disease, he was a major supporter of cancer research. When he was diagnosed with Leukemia three years ago, he took on the fight with the same passion and confidence he used in his everyday life.

Born in Scranton on May 4, 1959, he attended Scranton Public Schools and graduated with honors from Scranton Central High School in 1977. He went on to Columbia University in New York City, where he was a Dean's List student as well as varsity letter winner as the center on the football team. Following graduation, he did an internship at the Manhattan District Attorney's Office. In 1982, he entered Dickinson School of Law, where he distinguished himself graduating near the top of his class. He served as a law clerk for the Hon. Thomas Gibbons, in the Federal Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania.

He subsequently went on to a distinguished legal career and was a founding member of the city law firm Blasi and Walsh, where he represented individuals, corporations, school districts and innumerable clients. He performed untold hours of legal work for people who could not afford a lawyer. In recognition of his lifelong commitment to pro bono service he was honored by the the Lackawanna Pro Bono Organization as well as receiving a similar honor from the Pennsylvania Bar Association. A man of rare integrity, generosity and compassion for people, Mark worked tirelessly to better his community. Whether teaching Sunday School, lecturing as a professor at Lackawanna Junior College, or serving as President of the School Board, his career was focused on helping others.

Mark was a member and lector at Divine Mercy Parish, a Fourth Degree Knight of Columbus. He was also a member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians in America and the Minooka Lions Club. He earned a 2nd degree black belt in Karate. Mark served as the Honorary Grand Marshal of the 2012 St. Patrick's Day Parade.

An inspiration to all, Mark's legacy will live on in the many lives improved and the hearts he touched.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday at 11:00 a.m. in Divine Mercy Parish, at Church of St. Joseph, 312 Davis St., to be celebrated by the Rev. Francis Pauselli, pastor. Interment, Cathedral Cemetery. Anyone attending the funeral is asked to proceed directly to the Church Saturday morning.

Family and friends may call Friday from 2-8 p.m. in the Eagen-Hughes Funeral Home, 2908 Birney Ave., Scranton, Pa.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Lackawanna County Bar Association in appreciation of all their help to Mark and his family.