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Mark Dakos Obituary
DAKOS, MARK STUART
Mark "The Dake" Dakos died unexpectedly at home on December 23 in the presence of both his immediate family and his mother. He was born December 21, 1954, in Portsmouth, Virginia, and spent his childhood in Tarzana, California, where in 1972 he graduated from Taft H.S. In 1976 he graduated with a B.A. in history from the University of California Berkeley; he was also a member of Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity. Later, after receiving his M.S. in vocational rehabilitation counseling from California State University, Sacramento, he opened Mark S. Dakos and Associates in 1987 in Sacramento. At the time of his death, he was Chief Clinical Officer at what is now BTE Technologies. BTE's Greenwood Village, Colorado office served as his home base.
Mark's greatest loves were his family, friends, golf, and college football. Always a "people person", he touched many lives in his 51 years. He is survived by his wife Mary, daughter Alexandra, son Laird, all of Centennial, Colorado, as well as his mother Rachele and brother Paul of Tucson, Arizona; sister Amy Mladina and family of Tarzana, California; and beloved cats Kizzie and Angus McGee.
Cremation arrangements are being handled by the Neptune Society. A memorial service will take place at Good Shepherd Episcopal Church, in Centennial, Colorado at 10:30 a.m., 7 January 2006. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in Mark's memory to Denver Rescue Mission, 1130 Park Avenue West, Denver, Colorado 80205.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Mark Dakos
Sponsored by The Hanoun Family.
Michael Askenaizer
December 23, 2021
So many years have passed. Among my fondest memories were the days that we played little league and pony league together. You were the pitcher, I was the catcher, your father was the coach. We all grew together and learned to be the best that we could be. Best of all, we had fun. I miss you.
Jacquelynn Paul
November 24, 2021
Missing you now, as always. In my heart forever. You were a very dear friend and an overall amazing man. May your legacies last forever.
Bill Grewe
April 27, 2020
So many years later but I wanted to send this short note to the children of Mark as i have stumbled on this page. I was a classmate at Taft. If you kids ever find yourself having a down day, please take warmth in remembering that your dad was bright light, and fairly noisy at times. If you walked into a classroom and your dad was already there, you knew it. He was always excited, funny and his hands and arms would often fly upward with his eyebrows in excitement over something you had failed to notice was indeed exciting. He made the ordinary unordinary. God Bless You. I can hear your father's voice from so long ago. Smile for your father and enjoy each day. Bill
Monroe McBride
May 7, 2018
Even after all of these years, I have not forgotten you, Mark, and never will, my college pal.
Pamela
March 5, 2017
Mark, your smile will always be in my heart.
Jacquelynn Paul
March 12, 2015
As is wise to do from time to time, I searched my name on the Internet. When looking at page three, your legacy page was there. Have had several "505" moments this week. You are fondly remembered and greatly missed.
Michael Philips
October 14, 2013
I was just cleaning out some boxes and found my old Taft HS yearbooks. I looked at some of the folks I knew and liked way back when. I saw Mark's picture. Then I saw he was a member of student council. So I googled Mark and what sorrow to see he passed away 8 years ago. Mark was one of those genuine nice guys in high school. Very bright, too. We weren't close but we would hang out and talk a lot at school. So sad to hear of his passing.
Jacquelynn Paul
May 8, 2013
Waiting to fly to Denver for BTE clinical team meeting. SWA just made announcement about a flight 505. Was asked the time last night, when I looked it was 505. Dake, you are always with us. Miss you much dear friend!
March 29, 2013
To Jacki...that special number "505" has come up a few times since Mark's memorial party and each with Mark's signature on it so that I know he is still out there keeping a special eye on all of us. Thanks for your loving memories of my very special brother. Yes, he is missed!!
Amy Dakos
Jacki
March 28, 2013
Despite the years, you continue to be held dearly in the heart of this friend in particular, and all others who had the priviledge of knowing you well. Miss you my friend, here's to you...505!
Jill James
January 6, 2011
Dear Mary,
Please accept my condolences for the loss of Mark. Recently I was informed of Marks passing from a classmate of the Madison High School Alumni 1971. I pray God will give you comfort from the Holy Spirit, strength from his word, and the courage to walk in faith. Thank you for your invitations and warm hospitality when I lived near you and Mark on Dry Creek Road.
Jill James (now living in Aurora, Colorado)
Jacki Paul
June 14, 2009
Here it is, 2009, and I am still missing my wonderful friend, Mark. To Mary and the kids, and all who knew and loved this wonderful man; there are no words to express the sorrow that has been felt at his passing. The world was blessed to have him in it; and it's a much sadder place without him. I think of him daily when I use my ER equipment and each time I have a "505" moment.
Mary Palley
March 3, 2007
Mary, It is never too late to let you know how often I think of you and Mark. Now that more than a year has passed, and I've been able to see you, I no longer feel the shock, but I will always feel the loss. We shared so many good times and laughs with you during your Sacramento years, and it's wonderful to read all these entries from all over the country and the world, and see how Mark touched each life so memorably, as he touched ours. How wonderful for you all to know that he was so loved, so admired, so helping to so many. You and Alex and Laird, Rachele and Mark's family have my loving thoughts,
Mary
Peter Tiffany
January 10, 2007
Dear Rachele, Paul, Amy, Mary and kids,
It was such a shock hearing about the passing of Mark. Mark and I were the same age and we had such times laughing with each other uncontrollably when we'd see each other. The special thing about Mark is he didn't have a negative bone anywhere in his body...never a discouraging word about anyone or about life. You don't get to meet very many people that are always such a joy to be with, and I count myself lucky to have known Mark. I couldn't help but to always feel happy and funny when I was with Mark. Distance and life kept us from seeing each other much after we were kids, but I'll always remember our times together with a special fondness. I and my family always thoroughly enjoyed our visits with the Dakos. I'm sure Mark will be dearly missed by everyone who new him. He was a wonderful person in every way.
Mark and Mary, Hawaii, Summer 2005
December 28, 2006
Mark in Hawaii, Summer 2005
December 28, 2006
Mark, Laird and David Pathe, New Jersey 2004
December 28, 2006
Daniel (Tiff) Tiffany
December 25, 2006
My family and I enjoyed many unforgettable moments with Mark and his family since we were youngsters growing up in California. We traded
Thanksgiving holidays, between Tarzana and Los Altos, continuing our parents' long friendship and discovering the magic of childhood
mischief together. Mark was the sweetest one of us all, always
participating in our escapades, but somehow reminding us of the
gentleness that we all sometimes left behind. Mark was amazingly and
inimitably funny and I will never forget his odd impersonations of
family members and his infectious laugh. He was a darling person,
someone we all hate to have lost so early.
Edith Kimmel - de Tombe
December 25, 2006
Dear Rachele, Amy, Mary and kids,
Mark was my special Americain friend. We met each other in 1974 at my aunt Berendina's home in Tarzana. I was very fond of him. I'm ever so greatful he visited us in Holland in 2003. I was really shocked when Rachele informed us of his death. He left us too young and too soon.
I wish you strenght to carry this great loss. Love Edith
David Pathe
December 24, 2006
Mary,
I was so glad to be reunited with my long lost cousin Mark after so many years. We re-met at Greek Easter in Maine (2005) and he an Laird came to visit our home in NJ that summer. We flew up the Hudson River and got some nice shots of the city, Mark and Laird. We were so sorry to hear of his passing and will be thankful of the few fun times we spent together during the last year.
With deep sympathy, Dave (1st cousin) and Maureen Pathe and family.
Mona Marcuse
December 17, 2006
Dear Rachel, Paul; and Amy,
I have such fond memories of our days in Tarzana with Paul, Mark and Amy in our pool on those hot summer days. My heart goes out to you for your loss.
Mark in Holland 1975
December 11, 2006
Bill and Margaret Chigas
December 10, 2006
Though Mark and I were related by way of his dad, we had only a few opportunities to visit. His ever present warm smile and persona will not easily be forgotten. Our sincerest condolences on this one year anniversary to Mary, his children, Rachelle and his siblings.
Karen Nathan
January 28, 2006
Mary, Alex & Laird,
We were all very fortunate to have Mark in our lives. He was a very special friend to me for many years, through the ups & downs in my life. I was so happy that he was able to join us in Hawaii in August. We made some great memories there. Cherish those wonderful times. He will be with you always, watching over you. And he will be greatly missed.
BART CHRISTIANSEN
January 19, 2006
Dear Mary and Family,
We wanted to send our deepest sympathy to you at this time. Mark was always so kind and pleasant when he came in our dental office. We know he was an amazing man and we are lucky to have known him. God bless you. Warmly, Dr. Bart and office ladies
Ron Davies
January 14, 2006
Dear Mary;
I am very sadden to hear about Mark's passing. Mark was a very special person who help improve many life's. He was one of the best vocational counselors in California. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the kids.
Roberta "Bobbie" Rashok
January 14, 2006
Dear Mary and Family,
You do not know me but I was one of Mark's first clients when he opened his vocational company. I have forever been greatful to him for his kindness & guidance. My prayers are with you.
Carol Hegdahl
January 14, 2006
I was very sad to hear of Mark's sudden death. He came into my life in the 1980's when my world had fallen apart and he put my life back together with rehab. Since then I have kept up on your comings and goings through our mutual friend Lynn (and Carlos)
Brown. May the pain of your loss turn into comfort through your love and the memories.
Joyce Hoffman
January 10, 2006
Dear Rachele and family, My deepest sympathy at the loss of Mark. May the happy and loving memories of your life with Mark give you comfort.
Roger & Patty Adler Cartozian
January 7, 2006
Mary,Alex,Laird
So very sorry to hear of Mark's sudden passing. We (my Husband) Roger and I last saw him at Carlos celebration of life. Both Roger and I worked many years in the past with Mark when he had his vocational rehabilation company. He will be missed by many. Life is to be lived, Mark did that. Cherished as he did of his family, and remembered as you will remember him as a loving husband and father.
Sincerly
Roger and Patty Cartozian
James and Evelyn Keene
January 7, 2006
We did not know you well, but we enjoyed talking to you both at the competitions. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jim, Rose,
Jimmy and Mariah
Alain Gayot
January 4, 2006
Dear Amy, Rachele and Paul,
I was very sorry to learn about Mark’s passing. He was truly what you call a great guy, always courteous and hospitable. On a visit to Oahu, he took me snorkeling at Turtle Bay clear on the other side of the island, out of his busy schedule… that was a small detail in his fulfilled life. He will be missed by all. I extend my deepest sympathy to Mary, Alex (that I met as a baby) and Laird.
Alain
Anne Sigmon
January 4, 2006
With a heart bigger than the Colorado sky, Mark will live on in our memories as one of the kindest – and funniest – friends we’ve ever known. When I think of Mark, I’ll always think of blue and gold football, Blondie’s pizza, tailgate parties at coveted alumni parking spots, Big Island lava beaches and breaking surf, BMWs and big screen TVs, cats chasing balls under the Christmas tree. I’ll also remember long workdays and late-night calls offering good-sense counsel to clients and dear friends. And most of all I’ll remember how much he loved Mary and Alex and Laird. I pray that you will find comfort in the many wonderful memories. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Nidia Castro
January 3, 2006
Dear Mary, Alex, Laird,
Mark was very special in my heart and I am very sad to know that he has left this world. May the memories of the moments with him help you in this difficult time. My prayers are with you and your family.
Love
Nidia
Mark at 2005 Wilson-Ellis Reunion
January 3, 2006
Eleanor Kothera
January 3, 2006
Dear Rachele,
My deepest sympathy to you and your family. My prayers are that you may have peace and comfort at this most difficult time. Fondly, Eleanor
Frank Fish
January 3, 2006
Dear Mary,
I was very saddened and shocked to hear the news. I did not know Mark for a long time but he left a lasting image with me of someone who enjoyed life and was a great mentor. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Kathy Teten
January 2, 2006
Dear Mary, Alexandra & Laird,
My heart goes out to you, each and everyone of you at the loss of your husband and father. I know how difficult this kind of loss is and I want you to know that I will hold you in my prayers. It was so wonderful to meet all of you and enjoy your company at the Chadron, NE Wilson-Ellis family reunion this past July. News like this is so unexpected and you must know how much everyone loves all of you.
Kathy Teten
Mary Wilson
January 2, 2006
Dear Mary, Alex and Laird,
May the many memories you have give you strength at this time. It was so nice to have your family in Chadron this summer. I am so glad I had the opportunity to meet Mark.
May God’s Love be with you.
Mary Wilson
Juilianna Mhilli
January 2, 2006
Dear Mary,Alex & Laird.
I was so saddened and shocked to hear of Marks sudden death. My heart is breaking for you, Please accept my deepest sympathies. You are in my prayers. Mark was a True friend and he will never be forgotten.
Ron and Lue Jensen
January 2, 2006
Mary, Alexandria, and Laird,
Our prayers and cares go to you today. How blessed we were to enjoy your company and the acquaintance of Mark during your visit to Nebraska this past summer.
We hold you near in our hearts.
Ron and Lue Jensen
Fran Wagner
January 1, 2006
Mark was a good and honorable man. He taught me a lot. My deepest condolences are with Mary, Alex and Laird. This world has lost a good friend, for sure.
Mark Burr
January 1, 2006
Dear Rachel, Amy, Mary, Alex and Laird,
I am so very sorry for your sudden and terrible loss.
My memories of Mark are happy memories of our childhood in Tarzana. I remember Mark in my kindergarten class (there were three Marks) and his big dog Mavro. I also remember getting in big trouble with him for throwing gravel (white, I believe) at passing cars in front of the Tarzana house...
It sounds like he grew into a loving, happy and loved man. I am happy about that. My prayers are with you all.
Sara Burr
January 1, 2006
Dear Rachele, Paul and all Mark's family, I was sad to learn of Mark's death. You are each in my prayers. Though I didn't know Mark as an adult, I have many fond memories of him as a child in Tarzana. He was a funny, loving and dear person. Please accept my sympathies on your loss of Mark.
Elizabeth Burr
January 1, 2006
Dear Rachele, Mary, and all the Dakos family,
All the Burrs were so saddened and shocked to hear of Mark's sudden death. Please know that our hearts are with you, and our prayers go out for all of you and Mark's spirit.
I know I remember Mark as such a darling boy being brought to visit my brother Mark by Rachele. The two namesakes became regular playmates & fast friends. Their laughter & noise, along with Rachele's peels of laughter as she & my mom caught up with all their news are unforgettable memories for me. We were crazy about all the Dakos children, and, I like to think that we have held your family in our hearts ever since.
With lots of love,
Elizabet Burr
Evelyn Richards
January 1, 2006
Dear Rachelle
I was so sorry to hear of your'r son's untimely death. I know how hard it is to accept the loss of a loved one, especially at this time of year.
With deepest symphathy, Evelyn Richards
Shannon Harper
January 1, 2006
Dear Mary, Alex and Laird,
I was shocked and saddened to hear about Mark's sudden death. Over the past several years I have had the opportunity to spend time, food and fun with your family. I will never forget the humor and delciousness of his famous turducken and watching him dance with Alex and Laird at the cabin Thanksgiving, 2004. I always looked forward to spending time with you, David, my Mom, Keri and my sister Alex. Mark was always a joy to talk to, so open to new ideas and possibilities, full of wonderful information, and displayed a contagious love for life. I only knew him for a little while but he made a lasting impression. My prayers and love are with you all through this difficult time.
Harriet Handsfield
December 31, 2005
Dear Rachele and Family,
I remember Mark well as a little boy and loved him thoroughly. I'm not surprised that he grew up to be a wonderful man and loved by many. Of course he will be missed. I believe he is in a wonderful place, and will be there waiting for you in your time.
Much love,
B
Merle Briefer
December 31, 2005
Rachele and Family,
My heart goes out to all of you for your recent loss. Rachele, my friend, you spoke so lovingly of Mark. I know you will forever have a hole in your heart, but I pray the recollections of the wonderful years you've spent together will comfort you. All my deepest sympathy.
Dancing with daughter Alex and cousins
December 31, 2005
Dakos and BLand family Thanksgiving 2004
December 31, 2005
Roller coasting with son Laird
December 31, 2005
Boys trip to Myrtle Beach
December 31, 2005
Marilyn & Norm Harms
December 31, 2005
Dear Mary, Alex & Laird,
I was deeply saddened and shocked to hear of Mark's sudden death. Please know our love, prayers and sympathy are with you during this very difficult time.
Ornella and Reed Hanoun
December 31, 2005
Dear Mary, Alex and Laird,
During our 4 years in Denver, we've built a special bond that will stay with all of us forever. The big "Teddy Bear" will always be fondly remembered. We will never forget the numerous BBQ's, his passion for wine, golf and family excursions.
With greatest sympathy,
The Hanoun's
Michael Askenaizer
December 30, 2005
Dear Mary, Alex & Laird
My deepest sympathy for your loss. I knew Mark for nearly 40 years. Together we played sports, attended school, and worked for his father the summer after our Freshman year of college. We shared many memories together. I will miss him and grieve for his passing.
Michael Askenaizer
Ruth Miller
December 30, 2005
Your mother loved you and your family with all her heaart. I knew you through her love . All my sympathy to your family at this very sad time. Ruth
The Bargers
December 29, 2005
Dear Mary, Alex and Laird, our sympathy is with you as we have heard about Mark. He was such a fine man, full of humor and life. Our short time in Colorado is a wonderful memory because of your family. I wish we could be there to assist you in this time. Please know that we are praying for you in this time of sorrow. Janet, Jim, Bethany and Krista
Lynn Brown
December 29, 2005
Mary, Alex, Laird, Kizzie and Angus,
Your husband and father was my best friend as well as my husband's, Carlos. I knew Mark for 26 1/2 years and our relationship went from a business one to family over the course of those years. There are no words I can say or write to express the depth of my emotion or love for him and you. As Mary and I have already discussed, Uncle Carlos and Mark are together, either talking football or basketball or playing golf. Love to you all and I'll see you soon.
Aunt Lynn and Mowgli
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