We regret to advise of the death of Corporal Mark Anthony Pollard, CD (Ret'd) on 21 January 2025 in Mississauga ON at the age of 61 years.
Mark was born in Toronto, ON and was raised and educated in Mississauga. He worked many jobs, including the Town of Milton, the City of Mississauga, St Lawrence Starch Company, Hydro Mississauga, and as a Commissionaire at Toronto Pearson Airport Security.
Mark enrolled in the Canadian Armed Forces in 1989. After completing his Recruit Training at Canadian Forces Base Cornwallis NS, he undertook his basic training as a Combat Engineer at the Canadian Forces School of Military Engineering in CFB Chilliwack BC. Mark's first posting was to 5e Régiment de génie de combat at CFB Valcartier QC. His first assignment was to help construct a suspension bridge in Aiguebelle National Park in Rouyn-Noranda QC followed by a deployment with 2e R22eR to Oka (Kanesatake) QC.
Mark was posted to 22 Field Squadron in CFB Gagetown in 1991. The following year he participated in RV92 with the Armoured Engineering Section and moved to 4 Engineer Support Regiment (4 ESR) when it formed late in 1992. In May 1993, Mark deployed on Operation CAVALIER as part of the United Nations mission to the former Republic of Yugoslavia. After this deployment, he returned to 4 ESR and was promoted to Corporal in September 1993.
Mark retired from the Canadian Forces in January 1994 and worked as a municipal employee with the City of Mississauga until his passing. He was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 82, where he volunteered his time painting, doing odd jobs, and marching in Remembrance Day Parades.
Mark's strong passion for the War of 1812 led him to re-enacting with the Crown Forces Artillery Gun Crew as Gunner with the HMS NANCY for the past 13 years and was promoted to the rank of Chief Petty Officer. Apart from assisting other gun crews, he also volunteered for Heritage Mississauga's 2nd York Militia.
Mark's passing was acknowledged with a resolution by the Mayor and Council of Mississauga and his colleagues. Flags were lowered at half mast in his honour. Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Donations may be sent to the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 82 or the Heart and Stroke Foundation. Mark's family asks for support by attending any of the Crown Forces War of 1812 re-enactments.
