Mark Fraser Obituary

Fraser
Mark Frederick Fraser , 54, passed away Tuesday, July 26, 2011, in Houston. Dearly loved by many, Mark was always the one to show up when his friends and family needed help, and he always wanted to make us laugh. Mark was born in East Liverpool, OH, on September 2, 1956, to Fred and Margaret Ellen (Marge) Betz Fraser. He grew up in Wellsville and Calcutta, OH, where he played football and basketball and ran track. He attended the University of Houston and worked for Butcher Company and Swatzell Sales.
Mark was passionate about many things. An avid reader, he spoke with conviction and was a great storyteller. He conceived, wrote, produced, and directed the acclaimed Enron, the Musical, for which he appeared on national television. He was known to say, "I think of something impossible and crazy to do, and Janet helps me do it."
He was there when needed, lending his presence, expertise, humor, and tools to many a DIY project and to the many activities to which he gave his boundless energy. High among his passions was running, and he was an inspiration to others. He was Runner of the Year for three consecutive years in Bayou City Road Runners (BCRR), active in HARRA, the Houston Area Roadrunner Ass'n, and wrote the monthly column, "Running Debate" for Texas Runner. Some of his proudest accomplishments were completing two grueling 100-mile races, the Leadville Trail 100 and the Arkansas Traveler.
Mark is survived by his longtime girlfriend Janet Schneider Sutton, daughter Traci Nicole Fraser, and father Fred Fraser, all of Houston, sons Michael Ferrill Reis and Timothy Robert Fraser of Minneapolis, MN, sister Karen Ann Sullivan and niece Joy of Scottsdale, AZ, 3 grandchildren, and many devoted friends. He was preceded in death by his mother Marge Fraser.
A memorial service will be held at 6:30 pm on Monday, August 1, at First Presbyterian Church, 5300 Main, Houston 77004. In lieu of flowers, you may make donations to Memorial Park Conservancy, Mark Fraser Fund, PO Box 131024, Houston 77219, 713.863.8403.
"My proudest running accomplishment is: Any day when I have a planned early run, and: it is very hot and humid, I did not get enough sleep, it is raining, or I am sore and tired. Then, I get up anyway, lace up my shoes and run. Any day that happens (which is a lot), I feel proud." Mark was dearly loved and will be greatly missed. Online tributes may be posted at www.bradshawcarter.com .

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Published by Houston Chronicle on Jul. 30, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Mark Fraser

14 Entries

August 12, 2011

Thank you everyone for your wonderful coments. My brother was a wonderful father and a good man. I hope his life will inspire others to be who they are and go for it. God Bless everyone who touched his life and loved him. Karen Sullivan (phoenix AZ)

William & Debbie Bravenec

August 4, 2011

Mark was a great neighbor. We enjoyed talking with him when we saw each other outside. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of his family.

August 2, 2011

Dear Fraser family:
It is with great sadness and yet great joy to lose such a great friend and former co-worker. Sadness because he is no longer in our physical presence, but joy because he with the father in heaven. I remember the days Mark, John, Dave,myself and some of the other guys would play touch football on Saturdays and how Mark planned out the attack on me when they knew I did not have the football. That was just one of the pranks he pulled off. Mark was a very fine man, father and friend. Paul said said that absent from the body means present with the Lord. Sleep on Mark and take your rest, because the father in heaven knows what is best. I Love you brother. See you at the reunion in heaven.

Pastor Garfield E. Como
The Resurrection Church
Richmond, Texas

John Musslewhite

August 1, 2011

Mark was a good man and a good friend.My prayers to his family. Mark now you can see Michigan/Ohio State from the best seat in the house. Say hello to Woody and Bo.

Cliff Goodrum

August 1, 2011

Mark was not only my salesman but also a good friend. I will miss having lunches with him and sharing many laughs. I would like to extend my condolences to his family. You are in my prayers and thoughts during this sad time.

Cliff Goodrum

August 1, 2011

You will be missed. Thanks for not only being my salesman but also a good friend. I will miss having lunches with you and sharing many laughs with you. My condolences to your family. My thoughts and prayers are with them during this sad time.

Mike Reis

August 1, 2011

I wish I had spent more time with you.

Lisa Bunse

August 1, 2011

Mark was a shining light who could always put a smile on his friends' faces. Funny, charming, and generous, Mark leaves an indelible mark on our hearts. Fleet of foot and mind you were, Mark! You are truly missed!

Liz Bearman Loftus

August 1, 2011

My condolences. Mark was such a big part of running in Houston. Very sad to hear of his passing.

Trish Cunningham

August 1, 2011

Mark was a great man with such zest for life! He was inspiring with his wit and humor. He always saw the good in others. He will truly be missed.

Karen Thibodeaux

July 31, 2011

My heart if saddened from the loss of a great friend of the running community. Mark was passionate at his friends and his activities on the trails...God must be wanting to hold a fun run in heaven and needed Mark's advice on what to do! We will miss you terribly dear friend!

Tom Woltz Sr

July 30, 2011

I discussed many things with Mark. He was always willing to expound on them.
He was a funny writer, must have come naturally! God needs good servants like him, he will be missed by many. Tom W.

Lynn Trafton

July 30, 2011

Mark will be missed by all his running friends.

Bruce Greer

July 30, 2011

Great guy. Keep running.

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