Obituary of Mark A. Wilzen

Mark Allen Wilzen, 55, of New Britain, died Friday after a long courageous battle with complications from diabetes. Born in Jamestown, NY, the son of the late Carl and Carol Wilzen, he lived in New Britain for thirty six years. He was a self taught computer programmer and worked at Advance Software LLC in Willington with his friend and employer Rick Baker. He held a Mechanics Certificate, was an avid motorcycle rider and lifetime member of the American Motorcycle Association, a former member of APICS, an avid bowler, a fan of the Buffalo Bills and well known as a cat lover. Prior to working at Advance Software, llc, he was employed for twenty years at the Hitchcock Chair Company. Mark is survived by his loving wife of 34 years Andrea (Smouse) Wilzen, whom he married on April 8, 1978, his sister Rebecca Wilzen of New Britain; his mother in law Ruth Smouse of Blockville, NY, his brother in law Steve and his wife Chris Smouse of Lakewood, NY, his sister in law Glenna Catanese of Jamestown, NY, brother in law Dan Smouse of Blockville, NY, brother in law Jack Overbeck of Trenton, IL; his nieces and nephews Kandi and her husband Nelson Torres, Brandy and her husband Justin Hudgins, Tami and her husband Chris Russell, Michael and his wife Shelly Chase, Jill and her husband Billy Pavlock, Jackie and her husband Tom Summerville, Andrea and her husband Darren Freeman, Becky Smouse, Dustin Smouse and Jordan Smouse; and his cats Cinnamon and Willow. He was predeceased by his brother Eugene, father in law Glenn Smouse and sister in law Lori Overbeck. Mark will always be remembered as a generous and courageous individual. He was always a fighter despite huge health challenges over the past 10 years. His laid back and optimistic personality and sense of humor got him through many hard times. There will be no funeral services. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Connecticut Humane Society 701 Russell Road Newington, CT 06111.