Mark Elliott Chamberlain

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 service will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Clifton Springs Methodist Church, followed by Interment in Riverview Cemetery from 1:00 p.m. until 1:30 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life reception from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m., on August 14, 2021. This is a change from the original date of May 29.

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. Mark was a proud graduate from Midlakes High School, Class of 1977, and earned a Certificate in Machine Shop from the Finger Lakes Occupational School and 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 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; one aunt, June Wagner; as well as many cousins and their families. He is missed by all.

He was predeceased by both parents.

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