March On! ...the history of the
Toronto Optimists Drum & Bugle Corps
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
MarK Wicken
Corps: Port Credit Saints, Toronto Optimists
October 24, 1944 – November 5, 2024
My recollection is that Mark began his drum corps career with the Port Credit Saints before joining the Toronto Optimists. Played tenor with The Optimists from 1962 through 1964. He was a great guy who will be missed by all who knew him.
After leaving the corps, Mark lived a very full life. Here are a few notes from Mark's obituary:
Mark died at home, peacefully, after a seven-month battle with cancer. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 40 years, Nonie, and his sons Andrew (Heather) and Chris (Maddie), grandchildren Charlotte, Oliver and Alice, grand-dogs Ted and Twyla, cherished extended family Nancy and Courtney (Tim), and innumerable lifelong friends.
Mark grew up in Port Credit with father Wally (piano prodigy), mother Ella (the “family rock”), and was pre-deceased by his sister Janis (Bob).
Graduate University of Toronto (Victoria College, Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity) 1967, and recent recipient of the University of Toronto Arbor Award for outstanding volunteer service to the University.
Mark began his career in advertising and worked in Toronto, Chicago and Saudi Arabia. He was later an educator at the International Academy of Design, Toronto Film School, and a guest lecturer at numerous other institutions. In retirement, he was the author of the book “Remember Me!”:a passion project to instill invaluable lessons and strategies for new graduates in job search and career development. His aptitudes were enormous: professional drummer, incredible chef, martini mixologist, and entertainer-he was inducted into the Academy of Magical Arts at The Magic Castle in Los Angeles in 2015 as a recognition of his talents as a magician. Mark served on the Board of Directors of Music Fest Canada from 1992 until 2018, becoming its President in 2006. He played an integral role in transforming and progressing this organization which hosts the largest education-based music festival in North America.
Mark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . We Remember!