Obituary for Mark Steven "Duke" Contos
Mark “Duke” Contos
March 21, 2023
At the age of 61, Mark’s life ended too soon after a yearlong battle with brain cancer. In keeping with his character, he showed amazing stoicism, fortitude, and grace during his illness. Predeceased by his father, John and mother, Irene, Mark will be missed by his siblings and in-laws, Jack (Eloise), Linda Caniezo (Leo), Judith (Robert), Carol Cursi (Steve), Andrew (Wendy), Theresa (Shelagh), his nephews and nieces Jonathan (Veronnica), Gianna (Gabe), Kevin, Andrew (Ka’ena), Jeremy, and Drew, great nephews and niece Justin, Calissa, Anthony, and JJ, and several dear cousins. Quiet, unassuming, yet charismatic Mark had a wide circle of friends from all areas of his life. Starting with Frazer Park, and the Park Avenue Boys Club, to his career in retail, and working out at the gym he made lasting friendships that stood the test of time. This trend continued during his illness while living at the Loretto Fahey and Bernadine Apartments where he made special connections with the truly amazing administrators - we know who you are! - and caregivers who bonded with him. The family is forever grateful for the kind and caring staff of Francis House and their expert care of Mark. All of us were awestruck by the endless stream of friends, care givers, and work associates who came and showered Mark with love and support when he needed it most. A special thank you to life-long friends Stan, Vic, Norm, Bob, and Steve who visited often and kept Mark in high spirits rehashing their years of high jinks and shenanigans. For 30 years Mark owned a rustic cabin on a small plot of land known as the Happy Valley Deer and Rabbit Hunters Club where he honed his skills as an avid outdoorsman, fishing and hunting for deer, wild turkey, squab, and rabbits. A competent cook, he loved to prepare and share his bounty with family and friends. Mark enjoyed a career in retail sporting goods where he garnered loyal customers who trusted his recommendations because he had firsthand experience using what he sold. Mark’s real happy place was tending the bison at Empire Buffalo Farm fixing fences, feeding, and watering the bison and protecting the newborn calves from predators. Godspeed Mark. Enjoy the Happy Hunting Grounds of Heaven. Calling hours will be Sunday from 1-4 pm. at the Carter Funeral Home, 1604 Grant Blvd, Syracuse, NY 13208 with a service to follow. Contribution may be made in Mark’s honor to Francis House, 108 Michaels Ave, Syracuse, NY 13208.
March 21, 2023
At the age of 61, Mark’s life ended too soon after a yearlong battle with brain cancer. In keeping with his character, he showed amazing stoicism, fortitude, and grace during his illness. Predeceased by his father, John and mother, Irene, Mark will be missed by his siblings and in-laws, Jack (Eloise), Linda Caniezo (Leo), Judith (Robert), Carol Cursi (Steve), Andrew (Wendy), Theresa (Shelagh), his nephews and nieces Jonathan (Veronnica), Gianna (Gabe), Kevin, Andrew (Ka’ena), Jeremy, and Drew, great nephews and niece Justin, Calissa, Anthony, and JJ, and several dear cousins. Quiet, unassuming, yet charismatic Mark had a wide circle of friends from all areas of his life. Starting with Frazer Park, and the Park Avenue Boys Club, to his career in retail, and working out at the gym he made lasting friendships that stood the test of time. This trend continued during his illness while living at the Loretto Fahey and Bernadine Apartments where he made special connections with the truly amazing administrators - we know who you are! - and caregivers who bonded with him. The family is forever grateful for the kind and caring staff of Francis House and their expert care of Mark. All of us were awestruck by the endless stream of friends, care givers, and work associates who came and showered Mark with love and support when he needed it most. A special thank you to life-long friends Stan, Vic, Norm, Bob, and Steve who visited often and kept Mark in high spirits rehashing their years of high jinks and shenanigans. For 30 years Mark owned a rustic cabin on a small plot of land known as the Happy Valley Deer and Rabbit Hunters Club where he honed his skills as an avid outdoorsman, fishing and hunting for deer, wild turkey, squab, and rabbits. A competent cook, he loved to prepare and share his bounty with family and friends. Mark enjoyed a career in retail sporting goods where he garnered loyal customers who trusted his recommendations because he had firsthand experience using what he sold. Mark’s real happy place was tending the bison at Empire Buffalo Farm fixing fences, feeding, and watering the bison and protecting the newborn calves from predators. Godspeed Mark. Enjoy the Happy Hunting Grounds of Heaven. Calling hours will be Sunday from 1-4 pm. at the Carter Funeral Home, 1604 Grant Blvd, Syracuse, NY 13208 with a service to follow. Contribution may be made in Mark’s honor to Francis House, 108 Michaels Ave, Syracuse, NY 13208.