DR. MARK R. LAURIN, CLASS OF 1991
Dr. Mark R. Laurin passed away suddenly on March 25, 2017 due to complications from pneumonia while on vacation in his favorite destination, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. He was 51.
Dr. Laurin was born on June 4, 1965. He had a swagger and style and a zest for life that endeared him to his large following of patients, family and friends. In his youth, he learned to hunt, fish and explore the wilds of Alaska from his father. He continued to share those skills with good friends into his adult life. He was a sports fan who had only recently favored the Seahawks over the Rams.
His priority was always his patients, followed by his dental practice. He constantly strove for high levels of quality and service as a dentist. He was deeply compassionate and highly regarded among his clients and colleagues. His appreciation for the staff working with him never went unacknowledged or unrecognized. He was thankful for the skillful support he received from staff during the early years of his practice and relied heavily on the talents of his latest crew. While he ran on his treadmill in his dedication to fitness, he watched videos of dentistry and techniques on facial and plastic surgeries.
He was a devoted son who spoke often with his mother, Galene, and relied on her sound business advice and decorating assistance. He enjoyed a particularly close relationship with his sister Taree, whose daughter, Ashlann, was his guide to the young world of trends, slang and social media. He was beloved by his three sisters and was attentive and kind to the women in his life. Through life’s trials and tribulations, he didn’t judge and always saw the best in people. His friends sought his support and advice, which he always gave unselfishly.
Dr. Laurin is survived by his mother, Galene Axelson; sisters Sabrina Laurin, Taree (Joseph) Wood and Lisa Laurin; nieces and nephews Ashlann and Savannah Wood, Rene and Jared Laurin and Trevor and Arianna Hansen; stepmother Wendy Laurin; stepsisters Darcelle and Dorothea Axelson; and girlfriend Sadi and her daughter, Raci. He was preceded in death by his father, Gerald, and stepfather David Axelson.