Mark E. Chamberlain

1957 - 2021

Clifton Springs – Mark E. Chamberlain, 63 of Clifton Springs, N.Y., passed away unexpectedly on Thursday (February 18, 2021) at the Sodus Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Sodus, N.Y.

A Celebration of Life at the Clifton Springs Methodist Church and interment in Riverview Cemetery in Phelps, New York is planned for .

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made In Memory of Mark Chamberlain to the Village of Clifton Springs Historical Society/Foster Cottage Museum, 9 East Main St., Clifton Springs, NY 14432; or to the Clifton Springs Library, 4 Railroad Ave., Clifton Springs, NY 14432.

Born on November 8, 1957, a son of Clair and Helen Chamberlain, he grew up on Teft Ave in Clifton Springs, was a proud graduate from Midlakes High School, Class of 1975, and earned a Degree in Conservation from Finger Lakes Community College.

He worked at the former Kordite factory in Palmyra, at several restaurants in the Finger Lakes area, and his favorite, Walmart. He knew everyone from his work and his walks through the villages he called home, including Seneca Falls, Waterloo, Dundee, Ovid, and Sodus. Mark was a friend to all and would strike up a conversation with anyone who had few minutes to listen. His smile was the first thing you would notice – and he lit up every room as he walked in.

Mark was also a published poet, musician, and songwriter – his works, usually published under the pseudonym "Mark Elliott" include "The Radio", "Mary Anne", "Superficial Guy", "Love Degree", "It Isn't Easy" and many more – some lost to time. In "If You Believe" Mark wrote: "If you believe in me, you'll believe in magic. . ." and in "Organ Grinder Man" he sang:

The organ grinder's monkey will reach out his cup, while little children play nearby,

And the few pennies you put in his cup to feed the monkey is not enough.

The organ grinder's monkey is funny and cute.

Did you ever notice the polish fading on the organ grinder's boot?

The organ grinder grinds all day – the food in his stomach is his only pay . . .

Mark's favorite holiday was undoubtedly Halloween. Mark's laugh echoes somewhere in the distance as he reminisces about the Sasquatch or Big Foot believers who are still wondering why this creature spent Halloween in Clifton Springs. Last Halloween Mark dressed as a pumpkin and passed out treats to all the residents of his nursing home.

Mark's favorite sport was probably fishing. He often walked miles to the Outlet north of Clifton Springs trying his luck with trout and sunfish. Never shy, he offered techniques to anyone nearby, including those much older than him. His "go to" bait was corn kernels.

He was predeceased by both parents. He is survived by seven brothers John, Jim (Karen), Daniel (Katie), David (Juline), Eric (Tijen), Brett, and Tom (Nancy); six nieces and nephews Christopher, Devon, Ellasun, Holly, Sami and Ansel; as well as many cousins and their families. He will be missed by all.

Funeral arrangements have been made with the Cheney Funeral Home 70 Main Street Phelps.

Condolences may be expressed at Cheneyfuneralhome.com