I met Mark for the first time when he was sitting in with the Maroons at the Mark IV. My new husband, bassist, Jim Nelson, has known Mark for longer than that. We all watched as his black curly locks turned a distinguishing salt and pepper.... maybe more salt than pepper. The last time I saw Mark was a few months ago at the Chicago Prime Steakhouse. He had just joined yet another oldies show, The Stingrays. That day they took new band photos. Mark and Florence (or shall I say Mark&Florience) were in the audience of the trio which comprised of Neal Rose, Jim Nelson and Dan Ware (of The Stingrays). It was really the first time I sat and talked with both of them together since Mark would have normally been on stage in the past. In the course of the evening, I asked them how them met. It was a story they seemed never tired of telling. I could see the sparkle in their eyes as they shared each tender moment of their love journey. After a while, both Mark and I couldn't help singing along with the band from our seats... It seemed we both loved singing harmonies as we had our own show just for Florence. What a love story, what a gifted talent, what a kind man. Flo, I hope his voice will remain in your heart, singing your favorite love songs, My deepest condolences, Mickey Nelson Mickey & The Memories