Archbishop Anne Germond is saddened to announce that Archdeacon Mark Conliffe (Thunder Bay) died in the early morning of February 2^nd, 2019 at Health Sciences Centre in Thunder Bay surrounded by his family.

Ordained as a deacon in May 1960 and as a priest in February 1961, Archdeacon Mark has provided ministry for over 58 years in various parishes including St. John’s (Thunder Bay), the Parish of West Thunder Bay, and St. Michael and All Angels (Thunder Bay) where he served for 33 years as Incumbent.  He was Archdeacon of Thunder Bay and was named Archdeacon Emeritus upon his retirement in 2001.  From 1968-1991 he was the Naval Reserve Chaplain.  In retirement, he provided interim ministry to several parishes including St. Luke’s Cathedral and St. Matthew’s (Sault Ste. Marie), St. Paul’s, St. George’s and St. Luke’s (Thunder Bay).  He was the National PWRDF representative for the Diocese from 2005 to 2011 and worked tirelessly for the support of refugees and the rights of our Indigenous brothers and sisters.

In 2002, Thorneloe University conferred an Honourary Doctorate of Sacred Letters on Archdeacon Mark.  That same year he was awarded the Commemorative Medal for the Queen’s Golden Jubilee.

Archdeacon Mark leaves behind his wife of 57 years, Ena, daughter, Caroline, and son Mark.  He was predeceased by his son, Michael, in 2007.  He also leaves grandchildren and many brothers and sisters in Christ who loved him dearly.

The funeral service will be held at St. Michael and All Angels, Thunder Bay, on Wednesday, February 6^th at 10:30 a.m. with Archbishop Anne Germond presiding and Archdeaon Deborah Kraft preaching.  The liturgical colour will be white and all clergy and lay readers are invited to vest.

We ask for God’s comfort for Mark’s family as they prepare to celebrate a life well lived but also mourn the loss of his light in their lives.

‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’ (Matthew 25:21)