Mark Steven Bradshaw

Mark Steven Bradshaw passed away, on Sunday night July 20th, from a heart attack. He was only 58 years old. This sudden and unexpected loss has left everyone who knew him, utterly devastated.

To summarize Mark’s life in a single page is impossible, but we’ll give it a try.

Mark grew up in Brockton, MA. He worked for his brother’s construction company and often told the story of how he rolled over a cliff in a Euclid and was still around to talk about it! The story got better with each telling of course, but that was Mark. He had a loyal crew of Brockton friends that were there for him his entire life. They shared epic adventures, travelled to play golf and hang in Vegas, there were guys’ weekends and football games, they celebrated weddings, welcomed new babies, and supported each other during the tough times. Dominic, John C., Tommy C. Johnny, Fred, John D., Jimmy, Peter and Andy – we see you and we thank you.

Mark was previously married to Tracey (Unda) Bradshaw and together they had 2 amazing children, Rylee and Ronan. Mark was a very proud father and could be heard continuously bragging about the kids, and their achievements, to anyone listening. Mark was a loved member of Tracey’s very large family. He enjoyed family vacations and celebrated countless milestones, resulting in wonderful memories. Mark was the first on the dance floor at every wedding and was always the last to leave an event. He looked forward to playing the role of wingman to Honey and having life talks with Wally. If you needed someone to stay up with, Mark was your guy.

Mark moved to NH in 2001. He held multiple maintenance and custodial roles over the years, having the privilege of working in many school districts. He was the beloved Mr. Mark to hundreds of school children. Teachers have shared he was so much fun to work with, doing everything he could to make their lives easier. In New Hampshire, Mark was privileged to have another core group of friends. They too celebrated great times together and supported each other in tough times. Paul, Terezk, Bill, Laura and Kim – we see you, and we thank you.

Despite suffering from the catastrophic losses of his father, Edwin Bradshaw, his brother, Paul Bradshaw, his sister, Joni (Bradshaw) Hancock and his mother, Joan (Hennessy) Bradshaw, Mark chose to spend his life seeking joy in the company of friends and family. Mark was blessed to have many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins from both families. Everyone was family to Mark.

Mark wasn’t perfect, no one is, and there were times the tragedies of his past got the better of him. Despite this, he continued to move forward – seeking out opportunities to make others laugh and create new memories. A while ago Mark met his girlfriend, Melissa. The two were meant to cross paths. They both shared a history of loss and Mark was finally able to connect with someone who truly understood. Their time was cut short, but in the time they were together, Melissa brought him happiness we had not seen in a long time. She thoroughly appreciated his sense of humor and his weird sayings. If they were traveling far, he’d say they were off to East Kapeepee! Knowing he was happy, brings great comfort.

Mark was a movie aficionado. Often quoting lines as part of his everyday conversation, A few fan favorites: “I don’t think the heaviness is coming down for quite a while.” [Caddyshack] “Roll the map, don’t fold the map, there’s a crease right through Wichita.” [Twister] “Hooper drives the boat chief.” [Jaws] (he actually knew ALL the Jaws lines!) “Real tomato ketchup Eddie? Nothing but the best.” [National Lampoon’s Vacation] “2 days ago I saw a vehicle that could haul that tanker.” You wanna get outta here, you talk to me.” [Mad Max Road Warrior] Mark and the kids often spent evenings at the Milford Drive In, on a blow-up mattress in the back of the car – a favorite summer activity. Mark also geeked out over all things Disney. He visited often and would always say, “it all started with a mouse…..with an imagination.” If he wasn’t at the movies, or frequenting Disney, you would find Mark screaming at the TV, while the Pats were playing (especially lately.)

Mark was the life of every party. He had the ability to make friends with anyone, everywhere he went. Mark would talk to anyone, regardless of who they were. He truly liked getting to know people. Some have mentioned they would be out with Mark, and he would always run into someone he knew, no matter where they were.

People have asked if there is anything they can do. For those who prefer charitable donations, please consider the Make A Wish foundation. Mark would be thrilled to know he had a part in sending kids to Disney World, he loved the most magical place on earth. For everyone else, the next time you are at a bar or restaurant, please take the time to say hello to the person next to you. Mark has too many friends to mention, and that’s because he was always willing to strike up a conversation with a stranger.

Mark is already greatly missed. We take comfort in knowing he is reunited with his family – especially his dad, who he has not seen in over 40 years. His mom is making a chocolate cake, Paul is asking about football and Joni is stealing bites from everyone’s plate. A family once again.

For all of you who loved him, thank you.

Please grab a can of beer, open the tab and listen for the “kussshhttt” sound, then say “Bradshaw National Anthem!” Cheers to you Mark – we love you!

A celebration of life for Mark is being planned for a future date.