OBITUARY: Reverend Mark Thomas Gallipeau, V.F. at 61

In loving memory of The Very Reverend Mark Thomas Gallipeau, V.F. (61 years old). Pastor of St. Brendan’s Catholic Church in Elkins, WV, who passed away on April 25, 2017 after a short illness. He leaves behind his daughter Tracey, his parents Mary and Robert Gallipeau and siblings David, Stephen, Erick and Susan. 

Father Mark was born on Feb 15, 1956 in Natick and also lived in Sudbury and Groton and graduated from Groton High School in 1974. From his early childhood he was known for his love of serving others and his love of outdoors. He briefly worked as a bartender at the Groton Inn in the early 70s. He was well known for his expert level performance as a kayaker, a certified ski Instructor of 30 years and a mountain biker.

Father Mark graduated from Franciscan University of Steubenville and then attended St. Vincent’s Seminary. He was ordained to the priesthood on June 4, 2006 at St. Joseph’s Cathedral by Bishop Michael J. Bransfield. During his priesthood Father Mark served the Catholic Parishes of: St Francis Xavier, Parkersburg; St. John John Newman, Marlinton; St. Mark’s Mission & St. Bernard Chapel at Snowshoe Mountain; Immaculate Conception, Montgomery; St Anthony’s Shrine in Boomer ; St John’s in Belle & Good Shepherd Mission in Colberg; St Patrick’s in Coalton; St Brendan’s in Elkins; Presbyterial Council of Priests; Chaplain of Knights of Columbus, Elkins Council; Vicar Forane of Weston Vicariate.

Prior to studying for and serving as a priest, Father Mark also greatly enjoyed his years as a pro ski Instructor at Loon Mountain in New Hampshire and at Heavenly Valley, Reno, Nevada.

Father Mark was laid to rest on May 1 at St Brendan Cemetery in Elkins, WV. Father Mark will be greatly missed by his family, parish families and friends.