By LEE HORTON
Top coach squash coach Mark Sachvie has tragically died, while attending the memorial service of Canadian squash player Adrian Dudzicki who was killed in a road accident 10 days ago.
Sachvie, who was racquets director at the White Oaks Club near Nigara, Lake Ontario, was also President of Ontario Squash and had helped run over 250 tournaments, including 12 National Championships and 40 Provincial Championships He was also the 2014 World Women’s Team Squash Championship director
He was attending a memorial service for Dudzicki which was held in Toronto when he was taken ill and subsequently died of a suspected heart attack.
Squash Canada reported on their Facebook page: “It is with profound sadness that we report the untimely passing of White Oaks Conference Resort & Spa Racquets Director Mark Sachvie. He died this evening while attending the Adrian Dudzicki memorial, he died of a heart attack. Mark is survived by his lovely wife Cindy and his three squash playing children Lauren Sachvie, Chris Sachvie and Nicholas Sachvie.
“Mark was the President of Squash Ontario and one of the top builders and squash professionals in Canada. Our condolences on behalf of the Canadian squash community to his family. He was truly unforgettable.”
Squash Canada Executive Director Danny DaCosta Tweeted: “Tonight I lost one of my best friends, my mentor and a second father to me… my life will never be same without you. #RIP Mark Sachvie.”
Matthew Serediak, Canadian Touring Professional, also posted:”R.I.P. Mark Sachvie. One of the saddest days in my life. You are absolutely without a doubt irreplaceable and one of a kind. The number of lives you touched and changed in the squash community is unfathomable. My heart goes out to the Sachvie’s….you will be dearly missed my friend.”
A tragic loss Mark was a wonderful personality. He was much loved by his friends. Always such a joy to see Mark. He will be missed.
So sorry to hear the news. Mark was always so happy being “around” squash and he was the number one ambassador for the game.
Colin – Every Christmas we talk about you! The “kids” still remember the greatest Santa ever to visit our house!! Fond memories of Sunday morning squash with “the gang!”
Yes, Roger and Colin, we Bennett”s can remember the best Santa to ever visit our house too! So very sad to lose Mark, many happy memories of all the years at White Oaks in our squash days, the parties and lots of great family fun. Our son Richie was one of Mark’s original Junior students. I was fortunate to have a visit with Mark back in February when I was on Ontario, he always had time to chat and talk over old times.
Mark was one of the first people I met when I moved to Canada in 1980, he was quick to introduce himself and made me feel welcome. Mark loved life, people, sports and having fun. He was one of a kind and will be missed by everyone who knew him.
After just talking with Mark & Cindy on Saturday – 2nd youngest Grandchild, Lucas, is taking squash lessons at White Oaks – this is just not credible!! Squash in Canada has just lost is greatest ambassador! R.I.P. Mark.
Mark was a coach to my son during his formative years, and to countless other young players in Niagara. As a former Squash Niagara President, I could always count on Mark’s support. He will be impossible to replace. Most of all I’ll miss his wry sense of humour. He has left a great legacy, not only for Cindy, Chris, Lauren and Nick, but for all of us who are involved in squash. Very sad to hear of this news.
My deepest condolences to Mark’s whole family. God bless his soul.
Ewa Dudzicka