Mangaluru: Father Mark Valder, a revered personality celebrated for his significant contributions to Konkani literature and unwavering service to the church, breathed his last on Thursday following a heart attack. The 87-year-old had been residing at St Zuze Vaz Home in Jeppu. Father Valder’s final moments occurred at Father Muller Hospital, where he had recently been hospitalized.

Born on October 22, 1936, in Permude, Father Mark Valder received ordination as a priest for the diocese of Mangalore on February 2, 1966. Throughout his dedicated service to the church, he held various roles, including serving as an assistant parish priest at Barkur, Cascia, and Shirva. Additionally, he served as the esteemed editor of the Konkani weekly Raknno from 1973 to 1985.

Father Valder’s commitment to journalism was evident as he pursued a diploma course at Mysore University and a certificate course at St Xavier’s Institute of Communication, Mumbai, all while fulfilling his role as Raknno’s editor. His pastoral responsibilities extended to serving as a parish priest in Ammembal, Tannirbavi, Siddakatte, and Gantalkatte.

The passing of Father Mark Valder marks the end of an era for both the Konkani literary community and the church, as his contributions and dedicated service have left an indelible mark on the lives he touched.

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