Mark Dion

Mark's legacy working during the AIDS epidemic as a social worker, community leader and friend lives on.

The St Olaf magazine arrived this week and I discovered Mark had died almost a year ago. How could this be? What a loving soul he was and how grateful I am to have known him. I can still see him dashing across campus, his coattails flying, probably late for class because he had been in deep conversation with someone. He always had time for someone else and I hope along the way he had people who made time for him.
I send my deepest sympathies to you, Lynn, and your brothers from myself and...

January 6, 2016

I first met Mark in the early 1970's on one of my frequent trips to Seattle. We lost contact in the 1990's and I often wondered what happened to him. For some reason I googled up his name today and read the sad news of his death. May he rest in peace and rise in Glory.
I remember Mark as a very caring person, a wicked sense of humour and above all a Christian who was not bound by the institutional Church.

Fr. Michael Forshaw
Vancouver, BC

As a social work student with the goal of working in Hospice, I accepted an internship at Group Health Home Care as the closest thing available at the time. Mark was one of the social workers in the Hospice program. He had spoken to one of my classes, and I admired him greatly.
Mark agreed to take me on for a month, so I could get Hospice experience. He let me stay with him the rest of the year.

Mark's deep, authentic humanity, respect for the dignity of each person, and...

My wife, Julia Chase and I knew Mark very well. We were the dear friends of Mark and Bill Hamilton. I had the honor of taking care of Bill Hamilton's estate after his death and helping Mark through his grief. We were shocked to hear of his unexpected passing. Our sincerest condolences to his friends and family. He was a very fine human being.

Joe

Joseph Aprile

Mark mentored me as the first Jesuit Volunteer placed at Northwest AIDS Foundation. He was kind, patient, with a delicious sense of humor. In addition, Mark gently sheperded me ( a young 23) through the coming out process.I happened to run into a co-worker from NWAF last month who shared with me his passing. It saddened me deeply. I'll always remember those kind eyes and his wacky sense of humor. Rest peacefully, my friend.

Having lost touch with my dear friend in the sixties the memory of his kindness and concerned friendship never dimmed in my heart. I look forward to seeing you on the other side by the grace of our Lord Jesus.

Lots of fond memories of Mark from Holy Trinity Lutheran on Mercer Island. He and his dad, Pastor Chuck, made church fun for all of us!
RIP, Mark.

Ah, Mark! My very first boyfriend! I'll never forget when you raided your parent's garbage to pull out a wilted bouquet for me. First grade maybe? Always love.