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Mark Simpson Obituary

SIMPSON, Mark
aka DJ Markie Mark
Born Nov. 4, 1964, he passed on April 11, 2005. A loving friend, partner and associate, Mark started playing in Sacramento 15 years ago at Bo Jangles, FACES, Club 21, Verona Village River Resort, Rainbow Festival, Lambda Freedom Fair, as well as guest DJ in San Francisco and Hawaii. Music was Mark's Life! Survived by Domestic Partner of 11 years, Mark Olson, mother Dr. Barbara Reed, father David Reed, sister Alexa Wondergreen, in-law Jay and nephew Eben, brothers Jeff Simpson and Joseph Aleman, in-law Cathy, nephews Satchel and Jack. A Celebration of Life will be on Monday, May 2, at 3:00 PM at FACES, 2000 K St. (20th & K), Sacramento, CA. For more information call Laurie Bonifield at 916.448.0706 or e-mail [email protected].

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Sacramento Bee on Apr. 24, 2005.

Memories and Condolences
for Mark Simpson

30 Entries

Kevin Yates

May 8, 2005

hi everyone...

for those of you who don't already know me, I’m Kevin... a bartender at club21 (and sometimes faces). I have something to say... and I really hope that you all will read this all the way to the end.

When I found out about mark... my dj... my world seriously stopped turning. my heart skipped a beat... my music stopped playing. I honestly thought someone was playing a very sick joke on me. unfortunately, I made a phone call and it was confirmed... my dj had passed on...

I know many of you simply knew him as DJ markiemark or mark Simpson or even just as the dj at bo's or faces... but he was much more than that to me. Mark was (and always will be) MY dj. I even called him that and it made him smile every time I said it. he's a wonderful friend. he always knew the songs I needed to hear to pick up my spirits and get my a$$ shakin on the dance floor, regardless of my mood. mark was (and always will be) a part of my family... and a major part of my life... just one example: he, along with his partner Mark Olson and Mark O's mom Wilma invited me into their home for Thanksgiving when I felt like I had no where else to go. That's just how mark was... he was always there whenever you needed him. Always willing to lend a hand and get the job done, regardless of what was already goin on in his life. Mark has inspired me in so many ways and I will never be able to say thank you enough... as I already said, he's my friend. he's also a mentor and a teacher... we always could talk about what music we were tired of (a Britney mix or lady marmalade) or what mixes were hot...

he even played a couple of MY mixes that I tried to make on my own and tested them out on our crowd on Wednesday nights. recently, he asked me to become a part of his production team... circuitry productions... which is one of the biggest honors I’ve ever been given in my life. for that, I will always be grateful to him (and Jon and David).

mark once made a comment to me when I was going thru a really rough time... I had decided to come out to see him one night at faces. in between getting songs ready and mixing, he listened to what I had to say. after I finished what I was telling him, he just flipped thru his books and grabbed another disc from his case. he then put the headphones up to his ear and queued up the next song. as he did this he just got the biggest smile on his face. I couldn't help but just stare at him and finally ask, 'what are you smiling for? did u not listen to what I just told you?' Again, mark smiled even bigger than before and simply said,

'kev, sometimes ya just have to keep on dancing. don't ever let the music stop.'

Just then one of my songs began to mix in and it once again got me to forget all that was wrong... and just keep on dancin.

On the Wednesday--bojanglesafter his passing was the HARDEST night I have ever worked in my life. Jon Williams (my other dj.. :-) ) did a wonderful job yet I certainly would not have wanted to be in his shoes... as time ticked away during the night, I waited (yet dreaded) when the last song would be played... mark always had HIS SONG that he played as the last song of the night--Erin Hamilton's 'The Flame'.

Whether he was at Faces or Club21, it was his song... even the security staff knew that when that song started, our night was just about done... this time though, the music lowered and mike h got on the mic... he made the announcement about mark's passing... while some didn't yet know up until that point, a lot already did. when mike began speaking I walked into the dance bar. he said some very kind words regarding mark and his role in the community... and then it happened... they pressed play and the music started... rather muted at first... mike began speaking again and then made the announcement that this was the last time we would hear 'The Flame' as our closing song on Wednesday nights.

I totally broke down. Granted I have cried and broke down many times since hearing the news, but even more so then... there I stood on my dj's dance floor, listening to my dj's song, feeling as though my music stopped... then as Erin's soulful words filled my ears, I was taken away... and once again, standing there on the dance floor with a heavy heart and tears streaming down my face I remembered those words my dj said to me... 'even though things are hard, u have to keep on dancing... don't ever let your music stop, kev'. as I looked around the dance floor at so many smiling (and crying) faces it all made sense to me.

I would just like to thank all of you who came out to show ur care and support. your hugs were much needed on that night. I would also like to thank those of you who read my post. as I already said, I don't often have much to say, but when I do I feel as though it's important.

my dj is a wonderful man. I hope that all he has done for us will never be forgotten. much of the work he did was behind the scenes, yet he touched so many people and so many of us benefited in one way or another. if you ever had the honor of meeting him, I hope it is one you will remember always.

my dj, you will be greatly missed and even though my music will keep playing and I will keep dancing, I will surely miss a beat now and then without you here to keep me in rhythm.

I love you dj and I will never forget you or all you have done for me...

~Kevin “Kev” Yates

Bartender, Bo Jangles

Rusty Mendez

May 8, 2005

U kno I am saddened by his passing.. Marky was ALWAYS polite, friendly, no ATTITUDE, kinda staffer! We worked on Rainbo pretty close & I would always "jaw" with him bout STUFF..LOL We had a mutual respect..Luv of music & his skills in puttin my "T's Quinceneta on DVD 4 Our family 2 have forever made him "Hella Kool" in my book.. But, U kno I am Not very good at handlin these expiring issues.. And If thee "Memorial" B at faces I'm goin If it B "ANYWHERE" I'm goin 2 pay my respects. .But, Why I wrote this now Is even more important! I have 2 delete his email address Which keep us linked in our own way & THAT IS WHERE THEE PAIN OF A LOST FRIEND has my tearsss... MiSS U MARK, GOD BLESS "RIP"

Rusty C Mendez

Jae Zamarripa

May 8, 2005

As I hear of this news ,I pay a visit of condolences to all who are

greiving for Marks passing. It is a very sad day as a lot of people he

has left a significant impression on, Including myself. My deepest

sympathies to those who will miss him most.

Jae Zamarripa

Charlie West

May 8, 2005

Hello Sacramento,

Some of you I know, and some of you I don't. My name is Charlie West (mah Momma calls me Neal ! ). I have been involved with radio and the clubs, since the age of 15. I currently produce a radio show called The Mixdown which airs to 6 different countries, 40 different radio stations, and more than 2 million listeners each weekend.

I am a Yuba City native and call the city of Sacramento my adopted home town. I greatly respected Mark. He is one of my favorite club Dj's. His passion and enthusiasm will be greatly missed, and very personally felt. We have witnessed the passing of a legend.

As for honoring his memory, if anyone possesses a Mix Cd of Mark's (preferably something current) I would like to have a copy of it, so that The Mixdown Dance Mix Radio show can showcase Mark, and honor a legend.

Also, I know that Mark was involved with the music scene, and if anyone has a way to contact the Speaker Junkies (I hope that is right) I would like you to contact me. Mark and I had discussed featuring them on The Mixdown, and I would like to honor that.

I am personally saddened by the loss of one of the most talented men in the business today. My condolences to Mark's partner, and to his family.

Sincerely,

Charlie West

VP West Coast (US)

Intermix World Media

Miss Bianca

May 8, 2005

He Only Takes The Best

a poem in Loving Memory of Mark Simpson (DJ Markie Mark)

God saw him at his happiest a LIFE filled with Glee

but now has put his arms around him and whispered

"Come with Me".

With tear filled eyes we must go on

but his memory will never fade away.

Although we loved him deeply, We could not make him stay.

A golden heart stopped beating,

hard working hands put to rest.

God broke our hearts to prove to us,

He only takes the best.

with the up most Love and Respect to an old Friend

xoxoxoxoxoxooxxoxo

Miss Bianca

Jeffrey Girard

May 8, 2005

DJ MarkieMark was a premiere DJ whom many of us often heard on many visits to Faces. He was also a wonderful example for the LGBTI community as CGNIE’s Director of the Rainbow Festival Fund.

DJ MakieMark served as DJ in Yuba-Sutter last April at the CGNIE fundraiser at Martini’s 227 for TJ Crippen. Those of us in Yuba-Sutter were honored to have such a wonderful talent lend himself to the event.

I didn’t know Mark personally. Just briefly. But when I did encounter him, he was always friendly and welcoming. I remember that once I approached him for help finding a web site for music for our shows in Yuba-Sutter. Mark kindly responded to help and let me know that he was happy to assist.

I also remember, last May, that Ty and I were coming home from a trip to San Francisco. Of all people, we saw DJ MarkieMark driving by at a gas stop on the way home. We were sure it was Mark in the red convertible with his license plate that had his name on it. We remember the little red car from the April show, when Mark let us load some of the props for the show in it.

On behalf of Yuba-Sutter Pride, we offer our heartfelt condolences to Mark’s family, loved ones, and the Faces and CGNIE family for this terrible loss to our community.

May DJ MarkieMark rest in peace.

-Jeffrey Girard

Yuba-Sutter Pride

Executive Director

Dave Shorey

May 8, 2005

On behalf of the staff of I.S. Productions and the entire Sacramento

LeatherSir and Leatherboy family, I wish to extend my deepest

condolences to the friends and family of Mark Simpson.

Mark's professionalism and dedication was an example of what is best

about our community. He was the reason that so many of our events

have

been successful. He will be greatly missed.

David R. Shorey

Chief Operating Officer

I. S. Productions

Co-Producer, Sacramento LeatherSir & Leatherboy contest

Larry Macy

May 8, 2005

Dearest Friends & Family of DJ MarkieMark,

I find myself deeply moved by the passing of my good friend and my

brother in community service. Mark, your spirited presence and loving

kindness will always be cherished in my heart. I am blessed to have

known you and to have watched you contribute so much to our friends in

Sacramento.

Thank you, Mark, for your never-ending sense of humor and your

smile. You continuosly brought joy and playfullness into my life...

especially during the hours of setup and sharing during last year's

Coronation in Sacramento. Blessings to you and your Spirit moves up

the spiral of life.

May your wings give you the freedom to soar! Perhaps I'll find you

in Hawaii again... or see you in the sky over San Diego... but most

definitely, in my thoughts and memories. I love you Mark!

Larry Macy

Emperor VIII - CGNIE, Inc.

Darrick Lawson

May 8, 2005

The loss of Mark Simpson is a shock. And a reminder to each of us to cherish every day.

I too wanted to share what a bright light Mark Simpson was to our community. He has been so helpful to the Stonewall Club. We didn't do an event where Mark wasn't a pivotal force in our success. Always behind the scenes. Always the calm in any storm. Somehow, no matter if it was Coronation, Rainbow Festival, Lambda Fair, or Drag Queen Bingo, no matter how chaotic it seemed, when you saw Mark you just knew it was all going to be OK.

Mark, your spirit lives on in each of us. In each event, while you will be missed, your spirit will be reflected in the continuing work, we, your friends, will carry out for the community you so loved. You will be missed. But you will never be forgotten.

"Do not pray for easy lives. Pray to be stronger men." – JFK

Dr. Darrick Lawson

The Healing Touch Chiropractic

Raymond Allen

May 8, 2005

This is really a sad time.

When Sacramento Valley Veterans decided to do there first fund raiser, Hal recommended DJ Markie Mark, he showed up an hour before the show and jumped right in and did his thing. Time went by and I realized how great of a person and Dj he really was. Every time I herd his music I wanted to dance, he had a way of getting into my soul through his music. During the Rainbow Awards it was Markie Mark that gave my partner Paul Curtis the name Mrs Ray and that name is still being used today. During the last Canteen show again at the last minute he jumped right in and knew just what to do. I do say we are going to miss that man. It's rare in this life that you run in to some one and kind as Mark. He was one of the best and true people that you can ever know. I find myself lucky to have known him and I send out mine and Sacramento Valley Veterans deepest condolence to his partner and his family. Mark will be missed but not forgotten.

Raymond Allen

Sacramento Valley Veterans

Tina Reynolds

May 8, 2005

I want to share my heartfelt sorrow at the news of Mark Simpson passing. DJ Markie Mark was always there with a positive attitude, great advice, an offer to help. Mark will be missed by so many in Sacramento, read below for messages from people who knew and loved Markie.

I will miss him too.

Tina Reynolds

Uptown Studios

JG Gonsalves

May 8, 2005

We as members of the LGBTI community will miss all of the great music Mark Simpson made and his passion for uniting the community in song, as well with his hard work and devotion with CGNIE.

JG Gonsalves

Lambda Community Center

Interim Executive Director

Gayiel Von

May 8, 2005

As I write this, I am still in shock over the loss of one of Sacramento's true "good guys'" Mark and I have worked closely together for the last several years on the Rainbow Festival and you really get to know the character of someone when you are under pressure. He had recently taken over the reigns as Executive Director of the Rainbow Festival and I knew that it would probably be the best one to date.

He always thought outside the box and never said no. I always asked him how he did it and with his usual humility refused to take credit for the grueling pace and days and weeks of no sleep. He loved this community. He gave his all with dignity and always followed through. And in turn, the community loved him. He will be missed in more ways than are calculable at this time.

Prayers go out to his partner Mark.

The world is a better place because we had Mark Simpson as a part of our lives.

May you now find peace and know that you were loved.

Gayiel Von

Community Activist and Friend

Terry Sidie

May 8, 2005

It is with profound sadness that we accept and handle the process that goes along with this tragic loss of one of our family. We all loved MarkieMark. I have no words adequate to describe the magnitude of the loss both the FACES family and our Community as a whole is going through right now. I counted on Mark for so many things and he always gave me his all. Goodbye dear friend ... we miss you more than you could ever know.

Terry Sidie

FACES - Club 21 - Lambda - CGNIE - et. al.

Mark Olson

May 6, 2005

Mark,

I miss you so much... but how wonderful it was to hear so many people praise you and speak of their love for you. You touched many lives & hearts, mine especially. I was proud to speak up and say that You are My Partner, and that's a badge of honor I'll wear till I'm with you again, and forever after. You'll always have my heart & love.

A special thanks to everyone at the celebration of Marks life. The love, support and memories will never be forgotten.

Mark, 143 Forever,

Me

Dennise Yorks

May 3, 2005

Well Marky you put me back in first place, in the snooring Dept how dare you do that to me.God i miss you already your smile, that Sniley Whiplase sneer of yours when your about to become provoke. I'll miss the times of teasing and jesting around,Talking about cars espically the good old Muscle cars that we both dearly loved here's to the 2005 G.T Mustang in Black. @---@ With my love i say to you thank you for everything,i will miss you dearly Dennise Mo my best for you.

Aaron Kahana

May 2, 2005

Your love for what you did will be missed. You were who I looked for when I went out, to give you a big hug and tell you I love you. I will miss the nights of hanging out in your booth and cracking jokes on the weird crowds and sneaking your fan away for you to cool myself down from dancing. Most of all I will miss your smile of approval and gratitude when I would come up to you and be pouriong sweat from dancing, becasue you knew that I was having a great time and that you were spinning great. I love you Mark, your friend forever Aaron

Casey Caietti

May 2, 2005

I want to be among the many to share yet another story of Mark's kindness...Last September when I got ready to produce a concert at Club 21 for Lisa Cargile and Olivia Morgan I was without anybody to do the sound...mostly because I was new to producing a show. Darnell (the club manager at the time) suggested I see if Mark could offer any advice. He not only offered advice, kindness and assistance but without him we would have never pulled off a very successful evening. He would not ever let me-no many how hard I tried- pay him for his time (often after working 2-3 other jobs before he got to our rehearsals, set-up and finally the show itself)or take any compensation for his immeasurable help and knowledge. He told the girls where there were "dead spots" in the room, advised me on what vocal mic to purchase and so many other things that have helped me gain some knowledge in producing a show. But most importantly, I will forever remember and be touched by his incredible giving of himself for something he loved and his kindness in imparting his wisdom. The world and community has lost a very special friend, indeed.

Olivia, Lisa and I will forever be in his debt and as so many others miss him terribly.

-CASEY CAIETTI

Chick on the Loose Productions

Barb Smith

May 2, 2005

To the Marks - you have been so blessed to know what it is to love and be loved back. Cherish that always. Not everyone gets to experience it.

To Mark S's parents - to lose a child has got to be the greatest loss one can experience. There are really no words of comfort -

To all he leaves behind, you have my very deepest sympathies.

Close your eyes for a second - see the smile? Hear the laugh? He's there!!

Love,

Barb

Matt Welch

May 1, 2005

Mark -

In the past two years you have grown in to such a familiar face in my life. I will always remember the same direct path I'd take each Wednesday to get to your dj booth. Your warm, genuine smile will always be reflected by your music: the joy, excitement, and energy it brought in to so many lives. You have subtle ways of guiding people and helping them realize their full potential, letting them know when you are proud of them, and pushing them one step more. Thank you so much for sharing your pride with this community. This past weekend, performing "The Flame" in your honor was one of the most emotionally charged moments of my life - I would have been able to do it for no one else but you. I feel priveledged and proud to have been connected to you and all the wonderful things you have done. Thank you for everything. Love, Divinity Hayes (aka Matt Welch)

Jason Kirkland

May 1, 2005

Mark,

In recent months we were at odds over work related things but when I heard the news that you were gone, it was a weird feeling that I felt. I was immediately worried aboiut the people left behind like Mark. I was also worried for Aaron and of course for Robert. The love they felt for you was unparrlled.

It did not hit me Mark that how much you had affected my life until the Wednesday after your passing. I was at BoJangles and Jon Williams started to play the flame after Michael talked and I realized I was crying, tears streamed down my face and the faces of my friends.

You touched us Mark with your smile and your music and you will always live on as long as the music continues to play.

I hope at night I can look in the sky and see your FLAME burn bright.

Love,

~Jason~

Robert Long

May 1, 2005

Mark,

There is so much I could say about you. You were a mentor to me. You believed in me when no one else did. There is nothing that can fill the gap where you once were. You will me missed by all and your legacy as DJ Markie Mark will live on.

I Love You Mark

Mark Olson

May 1, 2005

Thank you all for your love & support, I couldn't make it without you. I know Mark will be missed by others besides me, and that although he's not here physically, he'll be in our hearts & spirits forever.

Love & Hugs to all.

Mark, 143 Forever! I'll miss you more than anyone will ever know.

Hope to see you all on Monday.

Mark Olson

bradley tompkins

April 30, 2005

mark, a good guy with a great heart, many will miss you, we will celebrate your life as the memories of the person you were fill our minds and hearts.

Ronnie Morgan

April 29, 2005

Markie Mark I Love U I am crying now that your gone! I love U Man You We're the best for me and my DJ'ing. Markie Mark had the best heart of gold and I Love U So Much :0 I miss you.:) Love Ya Dj Harrie Potter :)

Wendy Mc Kee

April 29, 2005

Mark:

I don't know what to say. You're a cool cat that shall be missed much. Thank you for letting me hang out with you at the Dj Booth from time to time. That was always such an thrill. Now who am I gonna bug about hearing some rather cool CD's that I've recently brought and actually liked them enough to burn it????? :) You take care, Mark.

Jon Williams

April 29, 2005

Words can't explain what it feels like not having Mark around in in my life. Although I have thousands of memories, the void is huge and hurts.

From everything we did together, road trips, working endless hours, drving each other crazy, to our daily calls, but mostly to the little things everyone takes for granted, he will always be a true reminder of what is good in people. I think words from his favorite song let's me know he's still around but just in a different way now...

"Wherever you go, I'll be with you.

Whatever you want, I'll give it to you.

Whenever you need someone to lay your heart and head upon.

Remember: after the fire, after all the rain,

I will be the flame..."

Shine Bright My Friend.

Jon Williams

Jo Tierney

April 29, 2005

Mark,

Your soul will continue to radiate through the music played at FACES, Bojangles and Club 21. I will miss your smile and your willingness to always make sure an event had the correct sound and lighting.

You were a true gift to our community and will not be forgotten.

Blessings,

Jammin' Jo

Bob Sinclair

April 28, 2005

Markie,

Thank you for all that you've done and all the lives you touched. There are so many people whos lives are so much better for you having been here. You will be in our hearts forever.

LAURIE BONIFIELD

April 27, 2005

MARKIE MARK,

I MISS MY COFFEE BUDDY.

LOVE YOU

LAURIE

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