May 20, 1953 - May 13, 2021
~ If I leave here tomorrow, Would you still remember me?
For I must be traveling on now, 'Cause there's too many places I've got to see ~
It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our dear friend, partner, father, brother and adventurer in Burnaby, BC after a swift and surprising cancer diagnosis.
At the age of 67, Mark lived a life full of love, family, adventure, community and travel - he was born to Jens & Margaret Hatlen in Victoria, BC and was one of five siblings who grew up in many different communities throughout the province.
In his late teen years Mark met the first love of his life, Debbie - the two would build a life and home together in the Kootenays, where they raised their two girls Jessica and Krysta, built a house, cultivated a strong community, planted and ran a Christmas tree farm, raised animals and explored the valleys, rivers, lakes and (most importantly) mountains in their backyard.
Mark worked his full career at the pulp mill Celgar, meeting and influencing many people along the way, and bringing his incredible spirit to everything he touched. Sadly, he was predeceased by his wife Debbie Hatlen in 2000 - a loss that would eventually spur a renewed strength and love of life into Mark and propel him even farther into this beautiful world.
A love of travel, hiking, cycling, and adventure would lead him to cross paths with his beloved Lili Wong in years to come. Those that knew and loved Mark delighted to see the two of them embrace the world in a way that many only dream of.
He created memories that will now last a lifetime - adventures that took him near and far on hiking boots and snow shoes, in kayaks and on bikes - trekking and exploring the world in front of him.
He will be deeply missed by his Sweetheart Lili, her daughter Racheal (Kitoshi), Mark's daughters Jessica (Chris) & Krysta (Jared) and his grandchildren Taylor, Jordan, Levi and a little babe about to join us; and his siblings, Peter (Susan), Jo-Anne (Bryan), Paul (Theresa) & Patti-Lee (David).
There are also many nieces and nephews who will miss their Uncle Mark, someone who took a keen and encouraging interest in their lives. Acting as a friend and mentor, and sometimes as a rascal, getting into all sorts of shenanigans.
There are countless friends and family beyond who will remember Mark for the big, kind, generous, and fun man that he was. A celebration of Marks life will be held in the coming months with more information to follow.
In lieu of flowers, please take some time to go for a walk or a hike, hop on your bicycle, spend some time in nature, plan a trip or take the plunge on an adventure you have been holding back on. Mark would love that.