Mark Edward Royce

Mark Edward Royce, 75, of Dublin, Ohio, passed peacefully on February 1st surrounded by family. He was funny, charming, caring, and masculine but tender. Unabashedly himself and full of life. Lover of Broadway and spoiler of grandchildren. Champion of finding the silver lining and being positive-strong, and thinking of others until the end. Known for his big personality, kind and generous heart, he had a playful and sometimes mischievous sense of humor, and he never met a stranger who wouldn't soon become a friend.

Mark encouraged his daughters to be assertive and confident and follow their dreams. He espoused hard work and integrity, but never took himself too seriously. Fiercely loyal, generous, and a friend to all, he was steadfast in his dedication to his ideals: the inherent value and dignity of every human being.

Mark loved sports. He was an avid golfer but also loved tennis, baseball, football, and racquetball. A passionate Ohio State Buckeyes, Patriots, and Red Sox fan, he always enjoyed watching a game. He also proudly volunteered as the announcer at Miracle League Baseball.

Margaret Jobes Royce (Margy) was the love of his life. They shared a passion for musicals, travel, laughing with friends, and doting on their two daughters. Mark always did a great job of showing his love for her.

He spent his career in paper sales, building close relationships and friendships with his customers. He was known for honesty, thoughtfulness, creative thinking, and a strong work ethic.

As a father, he readily offered thoughtful advice and encouraging "Mark-isms" such as "Go out and MAKE it a great day!" His daughters loved that he was not afraid to show affection or tenderness, fondly remembering him blow drying their hair as young girls while singing songs from the 50's and 60's.

As PaPa, he was much the same, but add in a decent amount of spoiling. Luca was his best pal, Maggie his little sweetheart, and the recent addition, Henry, was his snuggle buddy.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Margy, his infant son, Adam, his mother, Barbara, his father, Edward, and his nephew, Ryan. He is survived in death by his daughters Beth (Enzo) and Jen (Jonathan), grandchildren Luca, Maggie, and Henry, sister Susan (Gayle), brother-in-law John (Kim), niece Kristen (Trevor), nephew Brian (Ashlee), and many extended family members and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude’s or Miracle Baseball (The Miracle League of Central Ohio).

Visitation will be held from 3:00 to 6:00pm at Rutherford Funeral Home at Powell on Wednesday, February 4. Mark kindly requested no suits or ties. Please wear whatever makes you comfortable.

Funeral Mass will be Celebrated at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church in Powell at 11am on Thursday, February 5, followed by internment at Resurrection Cemetery in Lewis Center at 12:15pm.

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