Mark Robert Katz

On Sunday, April 25, 2021, Mark Robert Katz, loving husband, brother and uncle passed away at age 58. Mark lived larger than life. An entrepreneur, Mark balanced his professional time between Children’s Clothing, Real Estate and Mardi Gras novelties. The smile on his face and spring to his step were no match for his generous heart. Everyone he met was family. Whether a blood relative or stranger, Mark was quietly charitable. Sensitive, he was keenly aware of the need around him. For Mark, giving was his way of getting ahead in life.

Mark’s love of retail fashion began in his early teens as a top selling salesman at Danny’s Menswear at age 15. He continued his passion for clothing with his beloved wife Patricia, creating designer children’s fashion over the next 35 years.

Mark was an LSU graduate. For most, college is a time of finding yourself. For Mark, it was a time of finding others. Robert Jackson is a perfect example. He was Mark’s “Little Buddy.” Their relationship was chronicled by Louisiana Public Broadcasting and is permanently stored in the Louisiana State Archive. It is also one of Mark’s proudest achievements. For the essence of Mark Robert Katz, please watch a clip.

http://ladigitalmedia.org/video_v2/asset-detail/LFOLK-706-02_BigBuddy

Mardi Gras was Mark’s favorite holiday. His connection to his hometown of New Orleans led into another business venture as a supplier of Mardi Gras novelties. Mark often mentioned the momentary connection he had with people in the crowds after catching one of his special throws. Their thrill was his thrill and a major reason Mark rode in five parades each year.

Mark’s major interest outside of business was his family. He adored his wife Tricia and his three brothers with whom he shared an incredibly strong lifetime bond. Together, they were known as “the four Katz boys.” Recently, Mark and Tricia devoted much time and energy as caregivers to Tricia’s late mother Frances. Mark and Tricia were a team in business and in life.

Mark was preceded in death by his father, Mervin Katz and, mother, Rosemary Davis Fortmayer. He is survived by his wife Patricia Katz, his three brothers Barry Katz, Jeffrey Katz (Jane Levine) and Bruce Katz (Karen), his niece, Molly Katz, and, nephew Riley Katz. Mark was laid to rest on Friday, April 30th surrounded by the love of his immediate family. A celebration of Mark’s life will follow in the coming months. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Jewish Children’s Regional Service of New Orleans or the Big Buddy Program of Baton Rouge.