Mark Wathen was born in Chamblee, Georgia. He graduated from Marist High School and earned his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering at Georgia Tech. Following his graduation, Mark worked at Full Circle Lighting as a lighting designer and project manager. In 2001, Full Circle Lighting became HiTech Rentals and Mark stayed on when it became PRG (Production Resource Group) where he continued as a project manager. His role expanded into overseeing all aspects of event production. Mark was the “go-to” technical production guy on many notable productions including SIBOS, TedTalks, EAA AirVenture OshKosh, IPPE, numerous tradeshow exhibits and several years at the RSMGC. He was proud to work for PRG and made it his goal to make sure every client was happy.
Outside of work, Mark was a member of the Knights of Columbus at St. Matthew Catholic Church and was tapped to stream Mass online during the pandemic and until his illness made it too difficult. Mark was the Cubmaster for Pack 373 at St. Matthew and an Assistant Scoutmaster for BSA Troop 79 at Hopewell United Methodist Church, seeing many young men through the rank of Eagle Scout including his son, Alex. He was the consummate stagehand dad for his daughters, Claire and Cate, and their many theatrical performances. Mark loved nothing more than seeing his children grow into adulthood as kind, caring, and smart individuals who are ready to take on the world. Mark enjoyed camping, hiking and all things outdoors. He loved a fun game night and any and every family vacation whether it was at the beach or in the mountains. He never met a stranger and whether you were young or old, he wanted to know you and your story. His love of life was contagious and you couldn’t help but laugh whenever he was nearby.
Mark passed away in April at the age of 53, but his spirit lives on as we celebrate the wonderful man that he was and the many lives he has touched.
