That was Marcus. Both literally and figuratively. Marcus had so much life left in him, and so much more to give. But alas, it wasn’t to be.
We met the Bannon’s almost 17 years ago, when they became our neighbors. Though Marcus and Jodi were a bit younger, we feel like we hit it off – and struck gold by having such fun neighbors, with similar interests.
The family would almost never miss our neighborhood grape-picking party. When they were babies, Marcus would carry Sydney, Ava and Keira on his back while he picked, and then the little girls would madly stomp grapes with their bare feet.
And we would never miss the Music Festivals and Wine Bottlings at their house, which could last late into the night, and the morning and the next day.
One of the memories that I’ll never forget is the guys’ trips to Whistler that Marcus organized. He and friends had been doing it for a couple years, and when I got the invite, I jumped at the chance. Not only did we do some epic skiing (including my first Heli trip), but I was able to meet his fun cousins and friends from Squamish. I also got to hang out with a great group of guys who I can call friends now. Chad, Rusty, Matt R, Matt L, Mike, Aaron, Scott, Dave, Steve, and brother Grant – the wild gang, and friends that Marcus cherished.
Another benefit of knowing Marcus was getting to know his father John. From John, you saw many of Marcus’ qualities – sense of humor, entrepreneurship, enjoying life, conversationalist. When we come over, John always has what seems like an endless set of questions – and was so engaging.
Marcus would often speak about his Mom, and how she left too early. And even when he didn’t speak of her, you knew she was on his mind. He had very fond memories, and felt like his missed some life chances to spend more time with her.
Now, up in Heaven, we can feel comfort that he sits with his Mother, finally together and enjoying her company.
And up there, we know who he will be…
The Leader of the Band
