Mark E. Waitkus

Mark Edward Waitkus, 66 of West Boylston, MA passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 11th at UMass Memorial Health Cancer Center, surrounded by the ones he loved.

Born on April 9, 1958, in Worcester, son of the late Vitte Waitkus and Anita (Tharpe) Waitkus. Raised in Sterling, he graduated from Wachusett Regional High School in 1977, where he was a star pitcher for the baseball team. Mark discovered his passion for art at an early age and pursued his talents throughout his life. Mark created a successful business, Waitkus Studios, in which he took great pride. Mark's dedication to his craft was evident in every stroke of his brush, capturing the essence and spirit of sports culture with unparalleled finesse. An accomplished painter known for his exquisite work depicting historic stadiums, legendary moments in sports, New England colleges and local sights such as Elm Park, Coney Island and old Worcester diners. Mark was notably recognized as a watercolor artist for the Boston Red Sox, and Worcester Red Sox where his art brought joy and inspiration to countless fans. His work earned accolades with numerous clients including Major League Baseball, the Cooperstown Baseball Hall of Fame, The New England Sports Museum and The Jimmy Fund.

Beyond his illustrious career, Mark had various hobbies and interests such as landscaping, playing golf, skiing, and enjoying walks in the woods with his golden retrievers. Mark also had a deep appreciation for local history, music and local bands, and sharing stories of his beloved Sterling, MA. Above all else, Mark found immense joy in being a father. Coaching his sons in sports, creating opportunities and emphasizing service to others are all examples of this commitment to his children. 

Mark leaves behind his wife of 36 years, Linda (Hidenfelter) Waitkus, their sons Griffin and Troy both residing in Florida; brother Gene Loranger and wife, Kathy, of VA; nephew Andrew and niece Amanda; sister Sandie Jackson and husband, Geoff, of TN; niece Katherine Campbell and husband Michael, of NY; great nephew Christian and Hunter; nephew Christopher Jackson and wife Amberly, of TN; and great nephew Alex and great niece Avery. 

Visitation will be held on Friday, April 19 at Fay Brothers Life Celebration Home, 1 W. Boylston St., West Boylston from 4:00 to 7:00 pm. Mass will be held on Saturday, April 20 at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church, 111 Worcester St, West Boylston at 11:00 am. Burial will be held privately for the family at a later date. 

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mark’s memory to the Cancer Center of Excellence, give@umassmemorial.org.