Mark Ziegler is a sparkling example of a senior who finds himself busier volunteering in his retirement than he ever expected to be. A lively, energetic and friendly 32-year veteran of the federal public service in Ottawa, Mark and his wife, Bonnie retired to Sooke in 2008 and immediately immersed themselves in the community.
Mark quickly became an active member of Rotary, holding the positions of Foundation chair, Rotary Auction chair, and now president. Mark’s planning, research and supervisory experience equips him well for the leadership and coordination responsibilities.
Mark and Bonnie love to hike the endless wilderness trails in the Sooke area, and both volunteer with the Volunteer Warden program of the CRD, regularly walking the Sooke Potholes, lending a watchful eye. Mark is also an active member of the Kludak Trail Society, fulfilling the position of secretary and contributing his energy to trail clearing and repairs during seasonal work parties. He can also be called upon to help with trail clearing with the Juan de Fuca Community Trails Society, when the need arises.
An avid runner, Mark is a member of the Sooke Trail and Road Runners (STARR) Club, tearing up the streets of Sooke every Saturday and Thursday, as well as almost every other day of the week. Mark shares his passion for running by coaching and mentoring students of the high school cross-country team at Edward Milne.
Mark selflessly offers a helping hand and a listening ear to friends and neighbours as well, whatever the need. Sometimes when you need something done in a community, you ask the busiest person – Mark would be the first person that comes to mind!