MARK SWIDLER Obituary

SWIDLER MARK LAWRENCE TYRNA SWIDLER It is announced that on November 7, 2014, Mark Swidler and his cancer died. While Mark would have loved for this outcome to have been the result of a strong and mutual fight to the finish, it was actually the end of a five year period of a near continuous series of capitulations on Mark's part. An attempt was made to negotiate a settlement, perhaps subdividing the body in a manner that would allow both to live. While the cancer could see the logic in this approach, it felt a compromise would be a clear violation of its "Oath of Malignancy." Although the negotiations failed, perhaps such efforts proved a distraction for the cancer and contributed to the lengthy period from prognosis to death: a period spent loving and laughing with Mark's one true love of 48 years, his wife Wendi; and his incredible sister Ann Swidler; his wonderful nephew Avi Fischer; and his very special nieces, Joanne McNamara and Leah Fischer; and all his very many wonderful friends whom he loved as a family. If there is any consolation in Mark's forced intimacy with cancer, it is that while they will forever be buried in the same grave, the cancer will get no mention on the headstone. Mark's mother, Gretchen Swidler, was a uniquely wise and perceptive individual. She told Mark that at the end of one's life, the measure of its success is not how happy you had been - - not that feelings of joy were unimportant - - but that the proper measure of a life well spent was satisfaction: Were you satisfied that you lived by your principles and acted with truth and integrity? Were you satisfied that you were open with others and genuinely pleased for their successes and that you were generous with your heart and material gifts? Were you satisfied with the effort and energy you devoted to work, in support of friends and in embracing strangers? Were you satisfied that those closest to you, family and friends, felt embraced and supported by your love and affection? Were you satisfied that you were as critical of yourself as you were of others and that you strived to be better and to hold yourself to high standards? Did you leave the world a better place? In these things Mark died satisfied with his life. Service and interment private. Donations may be made to Montgomery Hospice, 1355 Piccard Dr., Rockville, MD 20850.

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Published by The Washington Post from Nov. 11 to Nov. 13, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for MARK SWIDLER

9 Entries

Jon van Daalen

November 23, 2014

Mark and Wendi had such impact on my life it would never be possible to express in a few sentences. I will alway have him in my heart.

Before the cancer popped up, I had always
envisioned Mark, Wendi and I growing old together and sharing many new adventures.

Love

Melissa, Amanda, and Jimmy (Richardson, Wells, Frey)

November 22, 2014

You and Wendi were an important part of our collective childhoods and you were the closest friends our father had. Reading of your death was a shock to us.
We pray you found Peace prior to your passing. Wendi, please know you were both loved so very much.

one of the best Artist I ever me and I am proud to have his work

victor rugg

November 22, 2014

My car guy is gone, my artist is gone, my friend is gone but his spirit will be with me forever, such a sad moment

November 16, 2014

May the force be with you.
Horace

Norma Sylwester

November 13, 2014

We have lost a special man, whose profound and positive impact on so many lives is a wonderful legacy. Amy and Dean captured his essence so well. My heart is with him and Wendi, dearest of friends for something like 42 years. Rest in Peace, Mark. I'll always treasure our friendship, and the beautiful wood piece you created for me will forever remind me of your thoughtfulness, generosity, and many talents.

Paula Renae Morris

November 12, 2014

Although some might say 33 years is a long time, I would have enjoyed more time as a friend of Mark's. I have much appreciation for all the good times we shared, and he will live on in my heart and memories. For all of us who loved you, and miss you, dear Mark, may you Rest in Peace 'til we meet again in The Light.

Wes LeMoyne

November 12, 2014

I will miss Mark forever.

November 11, 2014

It is difficult to imagine our life without Mark in it. For more than 25 years, Mark has been a friend, a mentor, an inspiration and an intellectual adventure. Mark personified integrity, honor, humility and steadfastness in all aspects of his life. His love for and devotion to Wendi was unwavering, and he was most generous with his kindness, his humor and his willingness and desire to help so many people. His wit and humor were a joy, his talents immense, and he lived with deep compassion for those he knew and loved, and for those he had yet to meet.

Mark was and will always be one of the most special people we have loved and admired. He will be sorely missed and will not be forgotten. We are grateful for the time we shared and for that part of Mark that will remain in our hearts always.

And Wendi, this one's for you:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RMTKb-pgxGI

With love and heartfelt condolences to Wendi, Ann and family,

Amy Fadida & Dean Aqui

Eddie Abramson

November 11, 2014

I feel very fortunate to have shared part of my life with Mark, Gretchen, and Joe. My condolences to Wendi, Ann, and to the rest of the Swidler family and friends.

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