Mark Van Rijswijk, a well-known Carleton Place and Renfrew businessperson and community leader, died suddenly on July 1. He co-owned several prominent establishments, including The Waterfront Gastropub, Final Score Sports Bar, and Trailside Canteen in Carleton Place, as well as Final Score Sports Bar in Renfrew. In the past, he co-owned Shaughnessy’s Pub and Grill and Envy Tapas & Lounge in Sudbury.
Carleton Place Mayor Toby Randell expressed his condolences, acknowledging Van Rijswijk's significant impact on the community through his businesses. “Although I did not know him personally, I know many people who did, and I send them and his family my condolences and sincere sympathies,” Randell told Inside Ottawa Valley.
Van Rijswijk is remembered as a devoted family man, a faithful friend, and a community-minded individual. He resided in Ottawa with his wife, Deanne Dunn, and their four children: George, Greycin, Henry, and Leia.
John and Lisa Bailey, business partners with Van Rijswijk and Dunn, paid tribute to their friend on Facebook. John Bailey wrote, “Today has been one of the hardest of my life as we lost not only our very close friend and our business partner but an absolute legend who would do anything for everyone.”
Van Rijswijk was also known for his dedication to community service. He continued the tradition of a free community Christmas dinner in Carleton Place, taking over the reins in 2020 after Kory Earle stepped aside.
This event provided a free hot meal and festive cheer to many in need, particularly those living alone or struggling financially during the holiday season. Earle expressed his gratitude for Van Rijswijk’s contributions, stating, “Because of Mark and his team, hundreds of people have received a free hot meal and some festive cheer on Dec. 25.”
Van Rijswijk's dream of opening a sports bar came true with the launch of Final Score Sports Bar in Carleton Place in October 2022, followed by a second location in Renfrew last month.
In June, when asked about future plans, Van Rijswijk mentioned, “We are going to try to slow down for a little bit and enjoy what we have built. I think we are going to take a breather for at least a year.”
Acknowledging the challenges faced by businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic, Van Rijswijk felt fortunate and emphasized the importance of hard work and perseverance. “We do not take anything for granted,” he said. “Along with a little bit of luck, it took us a lot of hard work.”
Mark Van Rijswijk's legacy of dedication to his family, community, and business will be remembered by many. His sudden passing is a significant loss, but his impact on the community and the lives he touched will endure.
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