Mark R. Werenko

1947 - 2025

Mark R. Werenko
Mark R. Werenko was 78 when he passed away peacefully on October 30, 2025. He was surrounded by family in the home he has loved for 50 years. He was born August 2, 1947, the son of John and Florence Werenko of Watertown, CT, and Albuquerque, NM. He was one of 10 siblings that deeply loved him: John Werenko of TX, Linda Fatale of NC, Buzzy Durkin of NJ, Barbara Werenko of TN, Lisa V. Keller of NY, Paul Werenko of FL. He was predeceased by his brothers Wayne Werenko, Christopher Werenko, and Patrick Werenko, as well as his daughter in law, Gwen Stewart. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Marcia (Nadeau) Werenko of 56 years, son Tim Werenko and his wife, Dani Marcus, daughter Holly Werenko and her husband Dan Caouette, and daughter Elizabeth Street and her husband Dane Street. He also leaves behind six amazing grandkids: Alexander Werenko, Annika Werenko, Keith Caouette, Jack Caouette, Finn Street, and Mark Street.
Mark often told stories of his childhood with unabashed fondness and joy. Days were spent making forts, exploring, and fishing, no doubt laying the groundwork for his true love of nature. He met the love of his life, Marcia (Nadeau) Werenko, as a teenager. They married in 1969 and raised three children with love and adventures like hiking to Nonnewaug Falls, Leatherman's Cave, zip line tire swings, riding in the back of the dump truck, and watching The Wizard of Oz together every year. While raising his family, he and Marcia built an amazing business in Watertown, Mark's Garden & Gifts. Over the 40 years of running this business, he took pride in always making each customer feel special. When people needed the most beautiful display of pansies, mums, or fountains for their yard or event, they called Mark. His reputation for excellence was built from an intense work ethic and a love of what he did.
The family will forever cherish memories of the lake house in NH and vacations in LBI. Mark was a truly outstanding human being. He led with kindness, understanding, and empathy. He frequently mentioned his rules for life: "Try to be good and kind and honest and fair." He lived these qualities every single day. He also took every opportunity to craft and deliver a joke (that often included props) enjoying the outcome just as much as the person on the receiving end.
He will be sorely missed by all who knew him. God bless and keep Mark Werenko.
For those wishing to honor Mark, please consider making a donation to the Watertown Food Bank.
The family invites you to a Celebration of Life that will be held at Ro's Pizza, 841 Main St., Oakville, CT, on Sunday, December 7 from 2-5 p.m. We'd love to hear your memories.