Virginia Beach—Mark Harris Tabakin, 73, of Virginia Beach, died December 5, 2019.
Born in Norfolk, he was the son of the late Raymond J. Tabakin, d. 1968 and Jessie R. Tabakin, d. 2011.
Mark was preceded in death by his brother Stephen L. Tabakin, d. 2012.
Survivors include his loving wife of 46 years, Rebecca M. Tabakin nee Masters; his favorite son, David and his wife, Erin, and their children Franklin and Casey; his favorite daughter Rachel; sister, Sally and her husband H. Joel Weintraub; his nieces, Ellen J. Weintraub and her husband Aaron Beck, and Sara E. Weintraub; his brother Edward; as well as his brother-in-law, Mark Masters and partner Marla Angermeier, and his son Alexander.
Mark graduated as a valedictorian from Granby High School in 1964. From there, Mark received several science-related scholarships and attended the Columbia University School of Engineering, from which he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in 1968. Following the untimely death of his father, Mark returned to Norfolk and commenced working in the family furniture store, the Meyers and Tabakin Furniture Company, growing the business significantly, managing the Virginia Beach location and serving as company treasurer. Mark parted ways with M&T in 2002.
During his 72 years in the community, Mark played an active role at Temple Israel and United Hebrew School, as a board member for many years. During his retirement he worked as a Virginia Beach Election Official. He was a lifelong Yankee’s fan, and an avid UN stamp collector. He loved the music of Cole Porter, doo-wop, and had many other widely esoteric interests.
A graveside service was conducted at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Norfolk by Rabbi Michael Panitz. Donations to Temple Israel or other charities of the donor’s choice. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.hdoliver.com.