The sudden passing of Mark Purves, a beloved member of the Provo, UT community and Brigham Young University faculty, has left family and friends grieving. Mark, larger than life and known for his charm, charisma, and captivating tales, departed unexpectedly on September 18, 2023. He leaves behind a profound impact on those who were fortunate to know him.
Robert Francis Schwartz pour tribute to Mark Purves,
“This morning I learned that our friend Mark Purves passed away on Monday. My thoughts and feelings on Mark, his life, and his goodness could fill many essays, and that time may come. For now, the grief is breaking over us in tidal waves, and our minds and hearts break for Eleanor, Ada, Charlotte, Declan, Malcolm, Ann, his sister Amy, his broader family, and everyone else who loved him like family as we did.
I know few people who could honestly be called raconteurs, but Mark was the raconteur’s raconteur. Witty, uproariously funny, standout father, championship baseball coach, peerless Russian professor, generous host, dramatist, scholar, tastemaker, Sinatra lover/expert par excellence, world traveller, friend encourager, and disciple of Jesus Christ. Even when life was shaking Mark to his core, he expressed to me faith in God and his Son that he would not relinquish.
Last night I was walking home from the train thinking of Mark, unaware he had already passed on. We texted a couple weeks ago; he planned to move to Denver and I was thinking that for Mark, I would travel to Denver in the summertime. With his passing, this I know: I need to love more. Judge less. Make sure that my faith in Jesus Christ means something to the people around me. Never miss an opportunity to reach out and express love. To quote the poet John Darnielle, Mark was a presence full of light upon this earth, and I am a witness to his life and to its worth.”
A renowned academic, Mark Purves had a deep-rooted passion for languages and literature, particularly Slavic literature. He began his academic journey at Brigham Young University, where he completed his MA in English and Russian. He further pursued his academic aspirations, obtaining a PhD in Slavic Languages and Literature from the University of Virginia.
Mark’s love for Russian culture and language was profoundly shaped during his missionary service in Russia from 1997 to 1999. He dedicated 17 months of his mission as a branch president, showcasing exceptional leadership and maturity at a young age. Mark’s enduring love story with Ann Pickett, whom he met during his missionary service, was a testament to his dedication and deep connections.
A devoted father, Mark cherished his five children—Eleanor, Ada, Charlotte, Declan, and Malcolm—imbuing in them a love for literature, music, and sports. He coached his son Declan’s baseball team to victory, displaying the same enthusiasm and dedication in every aspect of his life.
Despite battling personal struggles and depression, Mark always remained committed to his faith and community. He served diligently in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, imparting his faith to his children and striving to make a positive difference.
In honor of Mark’s memory, a memorial service will be held at the Rock Canyon Chapel in Provo, Utah. Family, friends, and the community will gather to celebrate Mark’s life, highlighting his remarkable journey and the indelible mark he left on those around him. Mark Purves will be remembered for his love, service, and enduring passion for literature and languages.
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