MARK E. THOMPSON

(Professor Emeritus, UBC Sauder School of Business, June 17, 1939 – July 24, 2025) With deep sadness, we announce the passing of Mark E. Thompson, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, friend, and Professor Emeritus at the UBC Sauder School of Business. Mark was tragically killed in Mexico City on July 24 , 2025, after being struck by a motorcyclist. He was 86. Born in Oakland, California, Mark earned degrees from the University of Notre Dame and Cornell University. After serving in the US Army and working with the International Labour Office in Geneva, he joined UBC in 1971. He became a full professor in 1985, and held the prestigious William Hamilton Chair in Industrial Relations for much of his career. Mark was a gifted teacher and widely respected scholar who helped shape labour policy across Canada. His work influenced employment standards, workplace safety, and public sector bargaining, and was cited by the Supreme Court of Canada. He was also a trusted labour arbitrator, adjudicating more than 200 cases over his career. In 2018, he was appointed to the Order of Canada in recognition of his service to labour-management relations and public policy. Even after retiring in 2002, Mark remained active in research, mentorship, and advocacy. He was active in the Emeritus College of UBC, and continued to mentor students and colleagues alike. He was also a loyal parishioner at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church. Mark is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Mary (née Carey); children, James (Anne), Julie (Michael), and Drew (Kate); six grandchildren; his sister, Peggy Desmond; many beloved nieces and nephews; and his granddoodle, Whistler. A celebration of life will be held on August 30th. Further details will be shared with family and friends.