Mark Anthony Audcent died unexpectedly on December 16th, 2023.
Mark was born in England, immigrated to Canada at the age of 2, and spent his childhood years in Montreal and then Ottawa. Beloved son of Gerard (d. 1981) and Eileen nee Kenway (d. 1989). Cherished younger brother of John (Mary nee Plunkett), adored uncle of Karen (Paul Labelle) and Tobey (Peter Nor), and doting great-uncle of George Nor and Hannah Nor. He was predeceased by his long-time love and partner Hendrik (Henk) Vanderhorst (d. 2021).
Mark was deeply kind. His gentlemanly manners, generous hospitality, impeccable taste and charming style will be dearly missed by his large circle of family, friends, colleagues and neighbours. Mark kept in close touch with numerous friends and family across Canada, as well as abroad, with connections in the United States, England, Europe and Australia.
Mark was called to the bar in Alberta in 1976 and had a distinguished career in law. He remembered appreciatively his time with the firm of Jones Black (now Bennett Jones) and his early years of practicing law in Calgary, Alberta. A devoted public servant he was proud to serve as the legal advisor to the Senate from 1982, as Law Clerk and Parliamentary Counsel from 1996 until his retirement in 2014. Well-known for his integrity, humility and discretion, and committed to excellence in his work, he strongly believed in leading by example. He served on many committees including the University of Ottawa Health Sciences and Science Research Ethics Board and the Association of Parliamentary Counsel in Canada. He also greatly enjoyed contributing to the education of young people about Canada’s government and Parliament through the Forum for Young Canadians, and his time teaching law at the University of Ottawa and at the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon.
Mark had battled with health challenges in recent years, but maintained his sense of humor, and his characteristic style and grace. We were privileged to have him in our lives and he has left us too soon. He will be greatly missed.
Friends and family are invited to gather at the Sacred Space of the Beechwood National Memorial Centre, 280 Beechwood Ave. Ottawa on Wednesday February 7, 2024 after 12 noon. A Celebration of Mark’s Life will be held at 1 p.m. followed by a reception with light refreshments. Those unable to attend in person are invited to attend via live stream by registering here.
In memoriam donations can be made to the Shepherds of Good Hope in Ottawa or the Stephen Lewis Foundation.
Digital Guestbook
Ritu Banerjee
Jacqueline & Shalin
Karen and family,
Sending you our sincerest and most heartfelt condolences on your loss. May your beautiful memories of Mark give you some comfort at this difficult time. Our love and prayers are with you.
Suzanne Palmer
Mes sincères condoléances à la famille, aux amis et aux collègues de Mark. C'était toujours un plaisir de partager un lunch garni de conversation intelligente avec Mark. Il me manque beaucoup et son départ soudain m'attriste. Repose en paix mon cher "avocat du diable "
Graeme Peppler
Mark was the definition of the term "Gentleman." Intellectually, as strong as there is, he combined his astuteness with a kindness, a gentleness and a friendliness that dissolved all boundaries. He was, easily, one of the most pleasant individuals one could ever want to have as a friend, as "down-to-earth" as they come. It was a privilege to know him.
Catherine M Lee
I had the privilege of serving with Mark on the uOttawa Research Ethics Committee. His dignity and compassion always reminded us of the people behind the procedures we discussed. My deepest condolences to those who mourn him.
Ray and Cindy Baumgarten
We have many wonderful memories of time spent with Mark. He brought truly a joyous atmosphere of fun, laughter, and caring to every encounter. We are already missing him.
To John, Mary, Karen, Toby and the extended circle of Mark's gentle reach, we send our most sincere condolences.
David Humphreys
Karen, you have done your uncle proud. Your notice says it well. I can add nothing more than he was a dear friend, always stimulating company. We will
Miss him greatly.
Hon. Raynell Andreychuk
Having the privilege to work with Mark for so many years in the Senate, I admired his commitment to justice, the necessary role of the Senate and his support and advice to all Senators equally. I will miss our long distance conversations in these last years my friend.
My condolences to all.
Laura LeBel
My condolences to Mark’s family and friends. He was a kind and intelligent man and I was glad to know him at work in the Senate.
Rhonda Walker-Sisttie
My deepest sympathies to Mark's family. I always found him to be such a lovely gentleman, and the epitome of kindness, sagesse and professionalism rooted in a deep respect for the constitutionality of the work of parliamentarians.
I have many fond memories of experiencing cultural events with Karen and her Uncle Mark. He was a wonderful mentor to us young lawyers. He took such care in giving us feedback and support; often given with humour and aplomb. He was a wonderful person who will be missed.