MARK LAWRENCE PAETKAU

(March 26 1944 - February 23, 2026) Born in Kelsey, Alberta, to John Paetkau and Agatha (nee Epp) Paetkau, Mark Paetkau died February 23, 2026, in Vancouver, surrounded by family. He is survived by his wife, Maureen Paetkau (nee Gregg); their sons, Stephen (Felice Jolliffe) and Jonathan (Heather Kirkland); his four grandchildren, Amelia, Jake, Georgia, and Kate; and his brother, Theodore. After struggling for months with congestive heart failure, Mark was ready to go, but not without landing a few well-timed jokes about his own demise. His was a good life, and he shared it with many, all over the world. Those who knew him will remember his diligence, his unfailing respect for others, and his warm, distinct, and enduring wit. He was an active member of many United Church congregations, including the one where he met Maureen, with whom he shared 58 years of marriage. He cherished and nurtured many other friendships, whether they began in elementary school on the Canadian Prairies or the NGO community in Bangkok, and these relationships sustained him and his family, and still do. Embarking on a career in banking and finance that spanned 50 years, he took his family to Tokyo in 1978, and moved to Thailand in 1990, opening doors for his family's adventures, and lending his financial acumen to many organizations, of which he was always a standout member. Mark and Maureen returned to Vancouver in 2004 to become generous and beloved grandparents. He will be missed by many, among whom his integrity and good humour will live on. A memorial service will be held at Pacific Spirit United Church, in Vancouver, on May 23rd at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to First United Church in Vancouver (https://firstunited.ca/donate-now).