Mark Robert Donachie was born to Ann Barbara Flood Donachie and Robert James Donachie in Olean, New York, on April 28, 1960, and passed Saturday, June 1, 2024, surrounded by his family.
In 1965, Mark traded his East Coast roots for a set of spurs when the family moved from New York to Texas. He attended St. Rita Catholic School (although admittedly made the conscious decision to send his children to Saint Monica’s) and graduated across the street at Jesuit College Preparatory School in 1978. Mark then moved to New Orleans and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Management from Tulane University. Upon graduation, he returned to Dallas, where he started his career like any other true Texan – in Oil & Gas, specifically, Hunt Oil. Mark’s early career took him and his family to several different cities across the country, including New Orleans, Columbus, Atlanta, the Carolinas, and California. Mark worked for many years as a key member of the Executive Team, most recently as President and CFO of Van’s Kitchen. He leaves behind a wonderful alliance with Van’s owner and staff, who will miss Mark’s leadership, friendship, and guidance.
Mark loved nothing more than spending time with his family. His children were his pride and joy, and he reveled in their successes and achievements. He was also crafty in his execution of back-of-the-napkin sketches for workbenches, closets, cat perches, and outdoor grills. He was happiest grilling a good steak or piece of salmon, eating Blue Bell Vanilla Ice Cream cups, drinking a Dr. Pepper, being in his swimming pool or hot tub, and demanding Dad tax on the candy you might be eating. He earned the nickname ‘Black Cherry’ due to his unlimited supply of Fresca.
Mark loved the holiday season. He never tired of rewatching It’s A Wonderful Life, roasting a huge Prime Rib, or buying and wrapping a multitude of gifts. He picked out every Christmas tree with an expert eye, and size was always the main factor. Mark loved giving and receiving silly gifts with his kids. He loved puzzles and games on the holidays and ensured every meal was preceded with a plate of Triscuits and cheddar cheese slices.
Mark, Susan, and their pug, Cali, would often embark on month-long expeditions in their RV – traveling from coast to coast. He adored Cali, who passed away in August of 2023. There is no doubt that Cali, Bailey, Ranger, Moon, and Binky, along with a multitude of cats, guinea pigs, and ferrets greeted him at the Rainbow Bridge.
His generosity towards family, friends, and his fellow humans is unmatched and will undoubtedly continue to serve as a guiding light for those who knew him.
He is survived by: son, Mark Ross; daughter, Emily Katherine and husband, Troy Davidson; life-partner and companion of 16 years, Susan McMinn; sister, Judy Donachie Watson; and brother, Robert Donachie. He leaves behind a lifetime of friendships, from childhood to college, deep friendships developed throughout his career, and other life adventures.
Flowers are appreciated, but please consider donations to St. Monica Catholic Church, Ursuline Academy, or Jesuit College Prep (Robert J. Donachie Scholarship Fund).
Visitation is from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. (with rosary beginning at 3 p.m.) on Sunday, June 16, at Sparkman Hillcrest. Mass will be at 11 a.m. on Monday, June 17 at St. Monica with reception to follow.
Thanks for all the fish, Dad!
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