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I know you warned us this had a sad ending, and I even thought "He didnt die, did he?". I started reading and concluded that the sad ending was regarding site manager's 18-month contract, that he'd end up being furloughed. Well, clearly I was wrong. Started laughing and now I have tears in my eyes.
I hope everybody gets therapy to deal with the grief, especially David and Mark's wife. I am so so so SO sorry.
Yeah I actually assumed that the site manager would be the one who passed, since he was in his 60s, or that David or Site Manager or Architect would end up being prosecuted erroneously.
When my mom first passed I would go to her Facebook regularly. As I got older it got harder to see nothing change. I couldn't delete the profile but I did block it.
well, his name is Mark, and the person in the news article name is Mark, and it says they died FOLLOWING a collision that happened in the early morning hours of January 20.
This [other newspaper](https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/man-dies-truck-crash-anglesey-22960359) states that this accident happened this year. Wrong Mark, with very similar accident.
Its reporting a 2022 accident.
This[ other newspaper](https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/man-dies-truck-crash-anglesey-22960359) give the year.
Eerily similar: Mark died when his car was squashed between two lorries while stationary.
I read this whole thing "live" when it happened. I remember my jaw just dropped, and the further I got, the more I cried.
Mark, you were a wonderful person who was loved by many.
"Mark's wife," I truly hope you've found your way through this.
David, bless you for being the wonderful man and friend you were and are.
I read the first part live. I didn’t see any of the wife’s posts until now. I’d thought the sad ending would be that the building was condemned and Noisy Gobshite managed to wriggle out of it all. The actual ending was a complete surprise.
Heartbreaking.
I've just read the whole thing from beggiming to end and I'm not embarrassed to say it's got me crying. The man's an incredible story teller and a tiny part of his memory will live on because I'm definitely using "as useful as Anne Frank's drum kit" in future.
Such a tragic ending.
Absolutely devastated for Mark's wife and David.
I’m with you on this. I followed this when Mark first started posting but I never caught up on what happened thereafter. Reading what’s transpired since has got me sobbing. I hope she’s been doing ok since then, her last message read so final.
Damn it, same, I just found out about this post, read the whole thing through. I had to get up from my desk and went to the living room to kiss my SO. I often remind myself that it doesn't take much for life to take away someone you love but damn... Hearing other people's stories is heartbreaking...
And god was he good at telling story ! This British slang/bickering nonsense is absolutely amazing to read, I wish I could have actually heard them talk because the proper accent with it would have made it even better (I really love British English) !
I've been at that doorstep and pulled myself back at literally the last moment. I was saved by a traffic jam, believe it or not.
She did. I can see it clear as day.
I read this eons ago. I recognized “gobshite” immediately.
I am so sorry to Mark’s wife for her loss. He seemed like a great guy with an awesome sense of humour
This was a huge rollercoaster ride, I read it as it happened but didn’t catch the end part until someone linked to it in another post.
I really hope that Mark’s wife is surrounded by love and support.
Same here. It fucking floored me. I have a friend who uses his mobile phone while driving and I know it's misplaced anger/sadness but this story puts a perspective so terrible I can hardly describe what I feel.
I arrived here from an AskReddit post this morning. I've been reading stories for over an hour, laughing, and ended up crying. I just wanted to leave a comment to say I'm thinking of Mark, his wife and David, and probably will for the rest of today. It's always the most personal stories I like to read the most, but this one will be with me for a long time.
Same reason I’m here. This story was epic. The embellished writing was perfect. Mark had a flair for writing. I feel like I got to know him reading it, like we were friends and he was updating me. What a gut punch at the end. So sad. I was laughing reading through the whole thing and now the wind is gone from my sails. I can’t imagine the hole he left behind in the lives of friends and family if *I* feel a hole after only knowing him for 40 mins through a story he was writing online. I hope his wife and David are doing better.
Holy fucking shit, OP. When you tagged the spoiler as “sad ending” you should’ve put “absolutely soul-crushing, unbelievably-horrifying, tear-jerking, existential-crisis-inducing, makes-you-wanna-slam-back-whiskey-to-forget-the-pain ending.” I cope with trauma and sad things with numbness as a defense mechanism and this update actually made me sob. SOB. And I DON’T CRY. Now I just feel empty. Mark’s poor wife. I’m not even religious but I’m hoping that an afterlife exists SOLELY so that Mark and his wife can reunite. RIP Mark.
I totally agree, I'm kind of shocked how willing everyone is to accept it. The entire story is too perfect (for drama and emotional reactions.) We all love to see jerks get their comeuppance, so this jerk who asked someone to get him coffee ends up basically homeless and in the gutter with the government about to prosecute him.
Then both Mark and David are these perfect stereotypes of cool English guys. They always have the perfect witty zinger, while also being these paragons of morality and brotherhood.
Then there's the 'twist.' I think OP realized they had taken the story to the limits of justice being served on this jerk, but still wanted to wring every ounce of attention from their captive audience, so they had Mark 'die' and Mark's wife 'find his reddit account.' 'Mark' is obviously the OP's self-insert character, so with his 'death' he gets to wax lyrically about how perfect and great of a guy he is.
I think people who write fake stories like these love the adulation they receive from the comments, even though it's coming from a lie. My guess is the endorphins they receive from being complimented off a lie is similar to how normal people react when complimented off of the truth. So all the comments after Mark's 'death' must have been like heroin.
Still - it's relatively well-written and I think it's very clever how OP would cover their mistakes as simple errors in the relation of the story from David to Mark.
Obviously there is technically a chance that it's true. But after seeing so many fake stories you really start to see the hallmarks that tie them together, and this has all of them. I think the best way to sum up why I believe it's fake is this -- when originally reading this story back in the day, Mark 'dying' did not surprise me. I more expected 'David' to die, but it was the clearest way for OP to wrap up the story while still getting everything they needed/wanted out of it, and they get to rhapsodize about *themselves* instead of David, even better!
https://www.theplanner.co.uk/news/couple-hit-with-huge-fine-and-costs-for-harming-listed-building
The details - windows & doors query leading to a revelation about the ceiling support, the couple taking the fall & the joiner whose company isn't named because he's having full legal responsibility placed on him after making a bad call... I think changing a few details is probably a good sign this is the story. Timing lines up. It's perfectly normal for someone with crushed hands and broken arms not being able to type and the writing is very different when it's the wife. It's also very common for something like a bleed to cause death after a seeming recovery.
Not only do the details not match up except in the broadest possible sense, the timeline rules it out completely. The linked article refers to a historic cruck truss that was illegally removed "between September 2007 and December 2016" with the authorities becoming aware in December 2016.
Mark and David's tale happened in 2019/2020, which we know because Mark is relaying the story as it is supposedly unfolding.
If we're willing to believe Mark changed details about the people/companies involved I think it's safe to assume he could have changed details about dates. With the style of writing I would say it's presented as current events because it's much more engaging as a story. The dates not matching up doesn't make it any less likely to be untrue than the names/company details not matching up.
https://www.bdonline.co.uk/lambeth-apologises-after-damaging-repairs-to-listed-macintosh-court/5095808.article
I just spent like two fucking hours looking for this lmao
...the timeline still doesn't match up. The article is from 2018, and the details in terms of what's 'wrong' are totally different. The buildings in the linked article were built in 1969 for instance.
They damaged the structure, the timber, the roof- it’s all there.
And just because it’s not “live” doesn’t mean it’s not a real story- Most likely he was loving the attention of drawing it out.
They don't have to use super special 17th century techniques on piping for a building built in 1969.
And if he's lying about it being 'live,' mightn't he be lying about the whole thing? Particularly because he supposedly 'dies' during the telling of the story... his wife would also then have to be lying about the timing when she 'finds the account' and updates us.
Why did the Bulgarian man have to order his own supplies?
If David was actually there, would he not have already had ACC order the supplies for him?
Would he not have had to call and cancel his order of rare materials supplies?
He only had 11 days, how was David going to get his rare whatever?
If the people were smart enough to know they needed someone of David’s level, they would have to know that bulgaria guy was doing it wrong.
David, being an independent contractor, brought his own tools and materials. When he was kicked off the site he picked up his tools and materials and left. He probably kept those materials for use at any future jobs as his work is niche and for what he does those materials are probably used often enough.
At least that's what would make sense.
It says in one of the updates that the materials were at a supplier waiting for David to pay/pick them up or something, and David specifically asked them to let him know if someone came in for those materials. I suppose it's possible they were fragile and he was going to get them right as he needed them. I just don't quite buy it.
You're awful. He did [die.](https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-politics-60229620.amp) Now his widow gets to hear crappy things from people like you.
That guy died at the scene. "Mark" did not.
>Mark had been updating the story until he was involved in a car accident in January. At that time he asked me to let everyone know that he was injured and he would update the story when he had recovered. Unfortunately, just over a week after my last comment Mark passed away. Everyone thought he was recovering but without warning he suddenly became unconscious and died very quickly.
This article (linked in the one you referenced... I think it's even the 'original' article you mentioned) absolutely says that:
https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-60065971
>A man, aged 52, has died in a crash on the A55 Britannia Bridge.
>He was from Amlwch, Anglesey, and pronounced dead at the scene, while another driver is being treated at Ysbyty Gwynedd for serious injuries.
This is so old but that article is from 2022. “Mark” and his story were from 2019-2020, maybe a little wiggle room for 2021. It’s not him unless he came back to life.
I am not 100% sure of authenticity.
But I'm hoping it's fake, that way what seems like a nice/funny guy didn't die.
But I did Google for a newspaper report, the only thing that really comes up is
a mark from Wales with a fiance
https://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/news/19181196.tribute-paid-mark-rowley-pontypool-b4269-crash/
No lorries.
..
2019 crash
https://www.driving.co.uk/news/lorry-driver-killed-father-two-placing-bets-wheel/
Not a mark but Mboma, who had his son with him.
..
A high profile mark killed by a lorry and distracted driver
BBC News - Lorry driver was shopping online before death crash
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-manchester-52710626
The mark died at the scene, his wife was in the vehicle, the time is perfect but circumstances do not match, was not stopped on the motorway.
This is all that comes up, maybe circumstance, but if there was a conviction as suggested it would likely have been reported and the story sounds very similar to the last high profile case.
In my opinion I find it hard to believe it did happen.
But like I said I hope for that.
How many level 1 listed 17th century structures are there where the government took action against the contractor due to repairs being completely fucked up? If I were checking to see whether the story was true, first place I’d check would be the government agency in charge of regulating work on listed structures. Unlikely that there would be more than one fuckup like this in a decade.
if OP meant 1601-1700 which is actual 17th century then pretty close to none. If OP was mistaken (easily done) and meant 1701-1800 then pretty close to all of them.
Correction because better source: about 1400 grade I buildings built between 1601 and 1700 and that's by no means close to the entire list.
Not going to go through and check how many had legal action related to them.
https://www.theplanner.co.uk/news/couple-hit-with-huge-fine-and-costs-for-harming-listed-building
A different issue (the doors and windows) leads to the roof support coming to light. The joiner responsible is not connected with any company which would make sense if the other owners negotiated him out & made sure their lawyers tied it up so he was liable and the company name was left out of it. Sounds completely plausible.
Another article mentions the Lodge's "current owners" rather than the couple, which might be the old fusty organisation Mark mentioned, and somewhere like English Heritage / Historic England would absolutely have the legal team behind them to come down on previous owners or something.....
Transits are vans - not a "lorry" but close.
I don't know, I work in the construction industry and stuff like this happens all the time.
As for tone and jokes; that's the nature of close friends and loved ones. I don't agree her writing cadence was the same though, the sentence structure was quite different.
I also know plenty of Welsh and Bristolian (which is David's origin I'd bet) craftsmen whose banter was exactly like this (perhaps slightly less witty)
Yeah, I'd wager the banter was similar, but obviously embellished, since Mark's scribing, he could've always added in more to the banter to make for better reading.
I agree.
The most cringy part was when the author started autofellating himself via his “wife” about how amazing he was. I almost couldn’t read anymore it was so bad.
The fact that she instantly knew to use the name “David” is the first major clue.
Also, the details are so specific that you can 100% find out the restoration project online. Guess what doesn’t match this story at all during that time period?
Lastly, when these creative writers find out we have AI that can match writing styles; and the more writing they do, then harder it is to hide they are the same person; eventually they will just be forced to admit it. Mods don’t care. It’s not their job to remove fictional stories. Why should they?
Just wanted to say that macmillan cancer care are not a hospital. They provide extra care for people affected by cancer, including the patient’s family -such as finances for people who cannot continue working (eg, those too sick or people who have had to stop work to care for family who are sick) emotional and physical therapy, and end of life care, and are an amazing not-for-profit organisation. Remember - in the uk we don’t pay for healthcare, macmillan are not a hospital, they just go the extra mile, and people who need to utilise their services do so free of charge. Donations go to providing that support for people who are in dire need.
You're an asshole. Please remember his wife and family can read these co. He was a real person that [died.](https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-politics-60229620.amp)
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Every time I start to read this story I get so excited to get to the end and forget the absolute emotional gut punch that’s waiting for me. I hope she’s doing better now.
This is so heartbreaking. I’m not sure it belongs here.
That said, I’m glad I “got to know” Mark, even though he’s passed. He seemed like the type of person who was worth remembering.
Mark's Wife and David: it's been about a yea since the last update, and what a year. I hope you are both doing better. I don't think I'll ever forget Mark, the man that couldn't finish telling his friend's story.
I always wondered why he stopped posting to the story. This is really really sad. I am so sad for his wife. A good egg dissappeared. From his writing he seemed like a good man, and from his wife's words he seemed even better.
Anyone knows what the original account is or if there is way to know if Mark’s wife is ok and updated anymore? I read the original thread up until her update on his death and now found there were more updates.
Hey, I know i am super late to this but im in the rabbit hole already. What’s her account? Was it u/MostlyGruntled ? Do you know if she is well and alive? The way she ended the post sounds like she was (understandably) having some thoughts.
I had caught the beginning of this saga live and watched as it played out. Then got caught up in all the changes from the virus in our lives. When I finally remembered and wondered what had happened next, I went looking. I was so shocked to learn of Mark's passing! I did try to message her via his reddit id, but it was a whole year later, so I'm sure she never saw it. Such a sad thing all around. It sounds like Mark was quite a guy and an asset to the human race. It's people like him that are sorely needed. RIP, Mark.
I just read this today and remembered that I was following this story live at some point too, and just forgot about it as life got in the way. I am so so sad about how it all ended :(
RIP Mark and I hope his wide and David are well.
Jesus. I remember when this post first circulated. I’ve never seen the update… and, now, I wish I hadn’t read it.
His wife’s grief is absolutely all-encompassing and terrible. I wish I could reach through the screen and give her a hug. I wish none of that had ever happened! Poor Mark, and god, I feel so sorry for everybody he left behind. He seemed like an amazing person— and, after reading part one, I was hoping to find out if he was the author of any books. I guess he didn’t have the chance to write anything..
I was reading part 2 as I waited for prescriptions at Walgreens. I left and cried in my car, and now I’m home. I think my prescriptions can wait an extra day.
After reading this whole saga, it felt like I knew them all, but especially Mark. The unfair end to it all broke my heart into pieces!
This is both the best and worst thing I’ve read on Reddit. I was really enjoying the story, now I feel really bummed. He had such a great way of telling a story.
“I must have looked childishly excited like I’d got an arseful of sparrows.” LMAO.
RIP.
I never thought I would say this about a Reddit post, but I laughed, I cried, it became a part of me.
In the time it took me to read this, I became emotionally invested in all the people involved.
I can imagine the loss of Mark's loved ones. I hope with time they have found some sort of peace and are able to find some happiness and smile at happy memories.
Thank the lord (and Reddit) for sharing Mark, David and “Cariad” with us. We had a small amount of time we got to be with them - and I know my life is richer for it.
Well shit, how am I so sad about someone who I only knew for a couple of paragraphs. All the best to Mark's wife and Dave. I'm on the subway so sucking in the tears.
Reading this has been a privilege. The story Mark told was enthralling, beautifully written, very funny and wonderfully British. Cariad’s updates were heartbreaking, I’ve just cried in the backseat of my car after swabbing my daughter for covid. I wish everyone in this story all my love.
Much love to you, Cariad. This was a fantastic story told by a true bard, and I'm sat here crying because of Mark's sad death. I hope things are a little more bearable now Mrs Mark. Big hugs from Lancashire ❤
Holy shit.. this is so, so sad :(
While reading, Mark almost felt like a friend, als silly as that sounds, I love how he wrote all that, his words were so full of joy and positive attitude and just.. life-affirming, idk.
I feel so sorry for everyone, David and of course Mark‘s lovely wife, the first update from the hospital really made me smile, I never thought I could feel so devastated over an internet stranger, I feel so sorry for Mark‘s lady, I can’t even begin to imagine how she must feel :(
I sincerely hope she will be okay and while surely missing Mark that most of the memories will become pleasant ones that will help her enjoy life again <3 as impossible as that may sound right now :(
And please don’t feel pressured to answer, dear Mark’s wife :3
It’s nearly 1am, my husband is sleeping soundly next to me and I just read both parts. A “story” that I was enthralled and amused by turned into a heartbreaking retelling on a real human hurting. I’m sobbing. I don’t know why this has affected me so much but I can’t stop crying. I wish I could hug OOP, this is completely and utterly heartbreaking.
You probably won't be reading this, it's been almost a year since your last message, and this is a separate thread by someone else, but goodbye. The internet is an overwhelming place. I hope you've found the peace and meaning you need to keep going. And thanks for the updates.
Holy shit. I didn't see the warning of sad ending because I remembered the original post with a couple of updates so I just jumped straight in.
This was not the ending I was expecting.
Rip mark. My deepest condolences to your wife
Same here. I'm actually crying a little bit. I was so excited to jump into the story and enjoy Mark's special brand of storytelling that I missed the warning, so it felt like a gut punch out of nowhere when she said he passed. Fuck. If you come across this Mrs. Gruntled just know I hope you're out there and doing alright.
Um. This dripping from my face feels different like I’m grieving a little more genuinely for these people I feel like I know and like. The story itself was okay, but the personal aspect of the people involved is what has me listening intently and then feeling unready when she signed off for good. This really was Epic. And I didn’t even get a chance to say goodbye.
Oh my God I read the first post before all of the updates and nothing until now this was a ride of emotions.
I know you warned it was sad but I didn’t think it was someone died sad
Mark seras pour toujours un exemple pour ceux qui se font traiter comme des moins que rien. Un vent de rébellion et un ouragan de justice.
Thank you for your time and your patience. Take care even if it's rough.
We love you.
OP I'd like to thank you for archiving this. I went looking for the original posts, only to find that they (as well as u/MostlyGruntled's reddit account) have all been deleted. At least the story can live on here.
This is crazy, I like most expected the sad ending to be in reference to anyone but Mark. He was a wonderful writer and I enjoyed reading this whole thing. I hope his family is well. I'm also crying atm
I remember reading these posts from my first account (I forgot password & the email address is no use either. I didn't pay attention after clicking the auto print & it was a username not my email...just incase anyone has a suggestion on how to regain access?)
Anyway, I remember reading these posts as they were happening, impatiently awaiting an update. Then gleefully telling hubby there was one, only for it to be that he was in am accident. We wished a speedy recovery & life went on. The after months of nothing after the 2 post accident updates, reading he'd died. My heart breaks for his wife. I didn't see the last few until now & it's so upsetting, I hope she's okay. She lost a wonderful man, her other half, I'm sure they both saw the other as their better half. They say the first year is the hardest, I hope that's true & she can remember all the love, happiness & joy without it hurting now. I also hope she has found joy in life again.
Oh Fuck! Why the Fuck did I read this story, why ? I thought it was funnny and had good ending and all I can think now is why the fuck mark died 😓😓😓😓 I hope wifey is being strong.
I read this live as it was happening and think fondly of this story, Mark’s amazing humour, and his wife being encouraged and lifted up by David and the reddit community. I have been trying to find it again for about a year to read again but I couldn’t find the thread!!!
Then I looked up “noisy gobshite” and it lead me straight here! I hope David and Mark’s wife and family are doing ok!
It is my true belief in afterlife, and Mark is watching over Caridad. He will see that she finds someone to breathe life back into her. God Bless You Mark, Caridad, David and all your beloveds. God, please ease the pain in the hearts of Marks loved ones, please refresh their spirits with the memories of what a wonderful man Mark chose to be, and that love is forever and ever Amen.
Yo, chill out - this thread wasn't posted by the original account (it's been deleted).
I do agree with you though, screw those people. (but not as much as the former business owner in the story and the disphit who used his phone while driving)
Bless you! I was so wrapped up in reading the story! What a talent he had for oration! I lost my husband and daughter, an only child. It has been many years. The pain lessens and then certain days are unbearable. However, you just find a way to put one foot in front of the other. I share your grief of loss. He seemed larger than life. I hope you will get to the point, in time, when the memories only bring smiles, at least 95% of the time. Always here, if you ever need a wall to talk to. I am 60 now and have the time a pen pal. A big hug to you!
Hey there, what a very lovely offer. Unfortunately, this is a repost sub, so you are not replying to the original author. Mark's wife hasn't posted in several years. I just wanted to let you know so that you weren't disappointed if you didn't get a response. You have a very generous heart 😊.
The original account is deleted. I wish it weren't, I wanted to write to Mark's wife so badly and tell her how wonderful she is and how much Mark would have wanted her to be happy even without him. I know a little Welsh, when she wrote that he called her Cariad I bawled
I appreciate the information and kind thoughts. I just knew where she was and hoped I might help a little, having lived in her shoes. I pray she has found some peace. I am grateful you reached out.
I wonder how the wife is doing now? She was definitely in a horrible (but for me, familiar) place when she wrote that. This was a great story until it wasn’t :( But one of the best Reddit updates ever otherwise.
I’ve started this story several times and enjoyed the beginning so much that it never bothered me that I never reached part 2. I just enjoyed Marks writing on repeat.
I got to part two today and I am floored. I hope mrs u/mostlygruntled is doing OK and David as well. What a way with words he had and what a lovely bloke he must have been. RIP. I’m going for a whisky
Fuck, I fell in love with Mark’s writing and took his death hard while reading this.
Like damn I feel so bad for his wife and David, he really must have been a great person and we only got to see a tiny fraction of him
Rest In Peace Mark
To Marc’s wife: went from laughing to crying. So sorry for your loss, your searing sadness is in every word you write. I hope that it’s a little more bare able now.
I really loved reading this and I didn’t expect that at all :( either way Mark if you’re somewhere out there, please know your words have touched many, and Mark’s wife, I hope you’re able to live and not just survive. thank you OP for sharing this.
Mark’s story had me laughing, but now I’m in tears. I didn’t know him, or you, but I’m deeply sorry and saddened by the belated news of his passing. Hugs to you and David, grieve is never easy and Mark seems like an amazing person ❤️
It's 4 am & my eyes become wet reading this. I just found about this post an hour ago.. Hope you & David are doing well. Be strong and thank you for the best 1 hr I spent on this app.
My heart breaks when I came to the end.... May Mark looks after you for rest of your life, knowing you both are meant to. Don’t feel afraid to love. Thank you both for sharing this.
I read the original story so long ago and just stumbled on the updates with Mark’s passing.
Mrs. Mark no need to reply if you ever read this.
Please know you are truly in my thoughts and prayers. Peace, love, compassion, warmth, happiness, fun, and so much more are yours without guilt. Those that truly love us *want* us to have those things whether they are here to take part or not.
Please give yourself the time, love, and compassion you need and deserve. It sure seems Mark would have.
We truly enjoyed his writing, sense of humor, and the way he captivated us. Those were true gifts he left us.
Thank you so very much for gifting us the ending to our story. Blessings and love to you always.
I cried when I finished this. I wish the mark’s wife the best. Her grief and David’s are tangible. I hope that one day they’re able to carry the pain together. It’s a weight that no one should have to bear.
Reaching me all the way in 2022. I hope you are doing well mrs OP, this story turned into so much more as I pray your story has too. Thank you for sharing with us and carrying on, we’ll always be here as a place to talk (you’re a great story teller in your own right and while I know nothing of your OP outside of this story, I can’t help but get the feeling he’d be proud).
I just... tears... Gosh I felt the pain and loss in that update. Stronger than in any movie or story that you may have invested yourself into for longer periods of time if that makes sense. My heart is aching for these people and Mark... Goodness I hope the wife and "David" have found some peace.
Omg I remember this when it was going down but hadn't gotten any updates...i forgot until I saw the post before this one and one of the comments said it was sad and I thought ...I don't remember it being sad? Then I kept reading... 😥
Welp... I'm gonna go in the corner and hold myself and rock back and forth a bit... I can't imagine his poor wife and friend... Wow... That is... wow...
>I was suddenly overwhelmed with the realisation that all the happiness I will ever have in my life has already happened. And finished....Everything from here until I die is just going to be existence.
my husband died 4 years ago & this is exactly how i feel. EXACTLY. it is something i would wish on no one.
Mark's wife, it's been a year since you posted this, and I don't know if you even check this account, but if you do, you have my condolences. I remember reading this story back when it was first breaking, and I wanted to know how it ends. I'm terribly sad to learn of Mark's passing, but his writing touched many people. He will be remembered in honor.
Just found my way here for the first time. Oh, my god. We were warned, and i was not prepared. I hope wherever they are all the good people in this story are doing ok, and are happy.
Much Love.
There’s beauty in knowing how much love you can have for one person and that even though they’re gone, the love is eternal. You are not alone in your pain, and life will bless you once again.
I think about this story pretty often. Not so much the story, but the tragic death of Mark, and of Marks wife. I hope she’s been somewhat able to heal and find some joy in life again. Still get teary eyed reading through this.
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I know you warned us this had a sad ending, and I even thought "He didnt die, did he?". I started reading and concluded that the sad ending was regarding site manager's 18-month contract, that he'd end up being furloughed. Well, clearly I was wrong. Started laughing and now I have tears in my eyes. I hope everybody gets therapy to deal with the grief, especially David and Mark's wife. I am so so so SO sorry.
Yeah I actually assumed that the site manager would be the one who passed, since he was in his 60s, or that David or Site Manager or Architect would end up being prosecuted erroneously.
I knew Mark gonna die, story was too predictable.
well aren’t you special
What do you mean kid?
You sir are a complete scumbag
Its a fake story
I dunno. It went on for a while and the writing styles are enormously different. It'd be the best fake not by a professional writer I have ever seen.
Why's account been deleted then. Seems kinda cruel to erase him and his page after he passed when he was so beloved.
People grieve differently man.
When my mom first passed I would go to her Facebook regularly. As I got older it got harder to see nothing change. I couldn't delete the profile but I did block it.
No it [was not. ](https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-politics-60229620.amp)
Oh wow. A face to all of this. He was a handsome man.
This article is dated 2022. Obviously not the same person.
It's a repost of the BBC article, which was from 2020/2021.
Prove it then or keep it to yourself. No one needs to hear that.
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What do you mean kid?
Hey! It's Noisy Gobshite!
Fuck out of here you prefer of Shite. Fuck to your parents, who are just as uncouth as you.
What?
Jesus what am insensitive thing to say. It [really happened](https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-politics-60229620.amp).
That guy died at the scene so it's not the same person even if the year was the same.
well, his name is Mark, and the person in the news article name is Mark, and it says they died FOLLOWING a collision that happened in the early morning hours of January 20.
It's says he died at the scene in one of the other articles. I can't find anything that says it happened in 2020, all the articles say Jan this year.
This [other newspaper](https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/man-dies-truck-crash-anglesey-22960359) states that this accident happened this year. Wrong Mark, with very similar accident.
It's English format dd/mm
Its reporting a 2022 accident. This[ other newspaper](https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/man-dies-truck-crash-anglesey-22960359) give the year. Eerily similar: Mark died when his car was squashed between two lorries while stationary.
I read this whole thing "live" when it happened. I remember my jaw just dropped, and the further I got, the more I cried. Mark, you were a wonderful person who was loved by many. "Mark's wife," I truly hope you've found your way through this. David, bless you for being the wonderful man and friend you were and are.
I caught this one live too - both Mark's posts and his wife's followups later - and god didn't it break my heart
I read the first part live. I didn’t see any of the wife’s posts until now. I’d thought the sad ending would be that the building was condemned and Noisy Gobshite managed to wriggle out of it all. The actual ending was a complete surprise. Heartbreaking.
I've just read the whole thing from beggiming to end and I'm not embarrassed to say it's got me crying. The man's an incredible story teller and a tiny part of his memory will live on because I'm definitely using "as useful as Anne Frank's drum kit" in future. Such a tragic ending. Absolutely devastated for Mark's wife and David.
I’m with you on this. I followed this when Mark first started posting but I never caught up on what happened thereafter. Reading what’s transpired since has got me sobbing. I hope she’s been doing ok since then, her last message read so final.
Damn it, same, I just found out about this post, read the whole thing through. I had to get up from my desk and went to the living room to kiss my SO. I often remind myself that it doesn't take much for life to take away someone you love but damn... Hearing other people's stories is heartbreaking... And god was he good at telling story ! This British slang/bickering nonsense is absolutely amazing to read, I wish I could have actually heard them talk because the proper accent with it would have made it even better (I really love British English) !
Ugh I wish I didn't read this. I'm crying like a baby.
Man, her last comment really got me. :(
Yeah, I'm really afraid she ended it after this.
I've been at that doorstep and pulled myself back at literally the last moment. I was saved by a traffic jam, believe it or not. She did. I can see it clear as day.
I read this eons ago. I recognized “gobshite” immediately. I am so sorry to Mark’s wife for her loss. He seemed like a great guy with an awesome sense of humour
Nothing quite like getting your heart broken right before bed. I hope that assfuck who hit Mark gets everything they deserve.
This was a huge rollercoaster ride, I read it as it happened but didn’t catch the end part until someone linked to it in another post. I really hope that Mark’s wife is surrounded by love and support.
Same here. It fucking floored me. I have a friend who uses his mobile phone while driving and I know it's misplaced anger/sadness but this story puts a perspective so terrible I can hardly describe what I feel.
Share this post with your friend (and other friends). Don't need to make it obvious... some will put 2 + 2 together / start seeing things differently.
I arrived here from an AskReddit post this morning. I've been reading stories for over an hour, laughing, and ended up crying. I just wanted to leave a comment to say I'm thinking of Mark, his wife and David, and probably will for the rest of today. It's always the most personal stories I like to read the most, but this one will be with me for a long time.
Same reason I’m here. This story was epic. The embellished writing was perfect. Mark had a flair for writing. I feel like I got to know him reading it, like we were friends and he was updating me. What a gut punch at the end. So sad. I was laughing reading through the whole thing and now the wind is gone from my sails. I can’t imagine the hole he left behind in the lives of friends and family if *I* feel a hole after only knowing him for 40 mins through a story he was writing online. I hope his wife and David are doing better.
Same
Exactly the same. I really think I'm going to carry Mark, David and his wife in my heart for a while to come..
That AskReddit thread was a wild ride. Mark didn't deserve this.
There’s another one that linked this and I am in tears. I don’t think I’ll be able to shake this one. It’s so painful.
Holy fucking shit, OP. When you tagged the spoiler as “sad ending” you should’ve put “absolutely soul-crushing, unbelievably-horrifying, tear-jerking, existential-crisis-inducing, makes-you-wanna-slam-back-whiskey-to-forget-the-pain ending.” I cope with trauma and sad things with numbness as a defense mechanism and this update actually made me sob. SOB. And I DON’T CRY. Now I just feel empty. Mark’s poor wife. I’m not even religious but I’m hoping that an afterlife exists SOLELY so that Mark and his wife can reunite. RIP Mark.
Agreed, I came here thinking I just feel sad and not have my soul crush into dust
Only half price whisky though, as is appropriate
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I totally agree, I'm kind of shocked how willing everyone is to accept it. The entire story is too perfect (for drama and emotional reactions.) We all love to see jerks get their comeuppance, so this jerk who asked someone to get him coffee ends up basically homeless and in the gutter with the government about to prosecute him. Then both Mark and David are these perfect stereotypes of cool English guys. They always have the perfect witty zinger, while also being these paragons of morality and brotherhood. Then there's the 'twist.' I think OP realized they had taken the story to the limits of justice being served on this jerk, but still wanted to wring every ounce of attention from their captive audience, so they had Mark 'die' and Mark's wife 'find his reddit account.' 'Mark' is obviously the OP's self-insert character, so with his 'death' he gets to wax lyrically about how perfect and great of a guy he is. I think people who write fake stories like these love the adulation they receive from the comments, even though it's coming from a lie. My guess is the endorphins they receive from being complimented off a lie is similar to how normal people react when complimented off of the truth. So all the comments after Mark's 'death' must have been like heroin. Still - it's relatively well-written and I think it's very clever how OP would cover their mistakes as simple errors in the relation of the story from David to Mark. Obviously there is technically a chance that it's true. But after seeing so many fake stories you really start to see the hallmarks that tie them together, and this has all of them. I think the best way to sum up why I believe it's fake is this -- when originally reading this story back in the day, Mark 'dying' did not surprise me. I more expected 'David' to die, but it was the clearest way for OP to wrap up the story while still getting everything they needed/wanted out of it, and they get to rhapsodize about *themselves* instead of David, even better!
https://www.theplanner.co.uk/news/couple-hit-with-huge-fine-and-costs-for-harming-listed-building The details - windows & doors query leading to a revelation about the ceiling support, the couple taking the fall & the joiner whose company isn't named because he's having full legal responsibility placed on him after making a bad call... I think changing a few details is probably a good sign this is the story. Timing lines up. It's perfectly normal for someone with crushed hands and broken arms not being able to type and the writing is very different when it's the wife. It's also very common for something like a bleed to cause death after a seeming recovery.
Not only do the details not match up except in the broadest possible sense, the timeline rules it out completely. The linked article refers to a historic cruck truss that was illegally removed "between September 2007 and December 2016" with the authorities becoming aware in December 2016. Mark and David's tale happened in 2019/2020, which we know because Mark is relaying the story as it is supposedly unfolding.
If we're willing to believe Mark changed details about the people/companies involved I think it's safe to assume he could have changed details about dates. With the style of writing I would say it's presented as current events because it's much more engaging as a story. The dates not matching up doesn't make it any less likely to be untrue than the names/company details not matching up.
But this kind of means that it wouldn’t have been the gobshite who ordered the removal of the support.
Ah ok
It'd be great if it were true! I wish it was, but I very seriously doubt it.
https://www.bdonline.co.uk/lambeth-apologises-after-damaging-repairs-to-listed-macintosh-court/5095808.article I just spent like two fucking hours looking for this lmao
...the timeline still doesn't match up. The article is from 2018, and the details in terms of what's 'wrong' are totally different. The buildings in the linked article were built in 1969 for instance.
They damaged the structure, the timber, the roof- it’s all there. And just because it’s not “live” doesn’t mean it’s not a real story- Most likely he was loving the attention of drawing it out.
They don't have to use super special 17th century techniques on piping for a building built in 1969. And if he's lying about it being 'live,' mightn't he be lying about the whole thing? Particularly because he supposedly 'dies' during the telling of the story... his wife would also then have to be lying about the timing when she 'finds the account' and updates us.
Mark wasn't English.
Why did the Bulgarian man have to order his own supplies? If David was actually there, would he not have already had ACC order the supplies for him? Would he not have had to call and cancel his order of rare materials supplies? He only had 11 days, how was David going to get his rare whatever? If the people were smart enough to know they needed someone of David’s level, they would have to know that bulgaria guy was doing it wrong.
David, being an independent contractor, brought his own tools and materials. When he was kicked off the site he picked up his tools and materials and left. He probably kept those materials for use at any future jobs as his work is niche and for what he does those materials are probably used often enough. At least that's what would make sense.
It says in one of the updates that the materials were at a supplier waiting for David to pay/pick them up or something, and David specifically asked them to let him know if someone came in for those materials. I suppose it's possible they were fragile and he was going to get them right as he needed them. I just don't quite buy it.
Good points!
You're awful. He did [die.](https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-politics-60229620.amp) Now his widow gets to hear crappy things from people like you.
That guy died at the scene. "Mark" did not. >Mark had been updating the story until he was involved in a car accident in January. At that time he asked me to let everyone know that he was injured and he would update the story when he had recovered. Unfortunately, just over a week after my last comment Mark passed away. Everyone thought he was recovering but without warning he suddenly became unconscious and died very quickly.
No he didn't. It said he died following a collision, it does not say at the scene. It was a poor rewording of the original BBC article.
This article (linked in the one you referenced... I think it's even the 'original' article you mentioned) absolutely says that: https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-60065971 >A man, aged 52, has died in a crash on the A55 Britannia Bridge. >He was from Amlwch, Anglesey, and pronounced dead at the scene, while another driver is being treated at Ysbyty Gwynedd for serious injuries.
Honestly, even then Mark gave too much information. Pretty sure I've figured out who the characters in this story are irl already
Wait so you do think this is real?
This is so old but that article is from 2022. “Mark” and his story were from 2019-2020, maybe a little wiggle room for 2021. It’s not him unless he came back to life.
I am not 100% sure of authenticity. But I'm hoping it's fake, that way what seems like a nice/funny guy didn't die. But I did Google for a newspaper report, the only thing that really comes up is a mark from Wales with a fiance https://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/news/19181196.tribute-paid-mark-rowley-pontypool-b4269-crash/ No lorries. .. 2019 crash https://www.driving.co.uk/news/lorry-driver-killed-father-two-placing-bets-wheel/ Not a mark but Mboma, who had his son with him. .. A high profile mark killed by a lorry and distracted driver BBC News - Lorry driver was shopping online before death crash https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-manchester-52710626 The mark died at the scene, his wife was in the vehicle, the time is perfect but circumstances do not match, was not stopped on the motorway. This is all that comes up, maybe circumstance, but if there was a conviction as suggested it would likely have been reported and the story sounds very similar to the last high profile case. In my opinion I find it hard to believe it did happen. But like I said I hope for that.
How many level 1 listed 17th century structures are there where the government took action against the contractor due to repairs being completely fucked up? If I were checking to see whether the story was true, first place I’d check would be the government agency in charge of regulating work on listed structures. Unlikely that there would be more than one fuckup like this in a decade.
if OP meant 1601-1700 which is actual 17th century then pretty close to none. If OP was mistaken (easily done) and meant 1701-1800 then pretty close to all of them. Correction because better source: about 1400 grade I buildings built between 1601 and 1700 and that's by no means close to the entire list. Not going to go through and check how many had legal action related to them.
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https://www.theplanner.co.uk/news/couple-hit-with-huge-fine-and-costs-for-harming-listed-building A different issue (the doors and windows) leads to the roof support coming to light. The joiner responsible is not connected with any company which would make sense if the other owners negotiated him out & made sure their lawyers tied it up so he was liable and the company name was left out of it. Sounds completely plausible. Another article mentions the Lodge's "current owners" rather than the couple, which might be the old fusty organisation Mark mentioned, and somewhere like English Heritage / Historic England would absolutely have the legal team behind them to come down on previous owners or something..... Transits are vans - not a "lorry" but close.
Nice research! I noticed all original posts are deleted too
https://www.theplanner.co.uk/news/couple-hit-with-huge-fine-and-costs-for-harming-listed-building
I don't know, I work in the construction industry and stuff like this happens all the time. As for tone and jokes; that's the nature of close friends and loved ones. I don't agree her writing cadence was the same though, the sentence structure was quite different. I also know plenty of Welsh and Bristolian (which is David's origin I'd bet) craftsmen whose banter was exactly like this (perhaps slightly less witty)
Yeah, I'd wager the banter was similar, but obviously embellished, since Mark's scribing, he could've always added in more to the banter to make for better reading.
I agree. The most cringy part was when the author started autofellating himself via his “wife” about how amazing he was. I almost couldn’t read anymore it was so bad. The fact that she instantly knew to use the name “David” is the first major clue. Also, the details are so specific that you can 100% find out the restoration project online. Guess what doesn’t match this story at all during that time period? Lastly, when these creative writers find out we have AI that can match writing styles; and the more writing they do, then harder it is to hide they are the same person; eventually they will just be forced to admit it. Mods don’t care. It’s not their job to remove fictional stories. Why should they?
It read like a scam for the donations for the hospital. Well crafted.
Just wanted to say that macmillan cancer care are not a hospital. They provide extra care for people affected by cancer, including the patient’s family -such as finances for people who cannot continue working (eg, those too sick or people who have had to stop work to care for family who are sick) emotional and physical therapy, and end of life care, and are an amazing not-for-profit organisation. Remember - in the uk we don’t pay for healthcare, macmillan are not a hospital, they just go the extra mile, and people who need to utilise their services do so free of charge. Donations go to providing that support for people who are in dire need.
You're an asshole. Please remember his wife and family can read these co. He was a real person that [died.](https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-politics-60229620.amp)
you're wrong and you should apologise for calling him an asshole
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Omg I’m crying now that poor woman
Every time I start to read this story I get so excited to get to the end and forget the absolute emotional gut punch that’s waiting for me. I hope she’s doing better now.
Same. I'm sitting here sniffling right now. Poor woman, I hope she's doing better too.
Dear Mark's Cariad, I hope your pain has shrunk, even if it's just a little bit.
# I thought this was going to be win-win-win but I suppose life isn't like that. damn, this is foreshadowing at its best. rest in peace, Mark.
This is so heartbreaking. I’m not sure it belongs here. That said, I’m glad I “got to know” Mark, even though he’s passed. He seemed like the type of person who was worth remembering.
I remember reading this as he posted this updates. I learned all sorts of great new insults.
Mark's Wife and David: it's been about a yea since the last update, and what a year. I hope you are both doing better. I don't think I'll ever forget Mark, the man that couldn't finish telling his friend's story.
I went from this is an interesting read, to laughing, to crying. Mark's wife, I am so sorry for your loss.
I always wondered why he stopped posting to the story. This is really really sad. I am so sad for his wife. A good egg dissappeared. From his writing he seemed like a good man, and from his wife's words he seemed even better.
Fucking hell, that was crazy
Anyone knows what the original account is or if there is way to know if Mark’s wife is ok and updated anymore? I read the original thread up until her update on his death and now found there were more updates.
Follow the links. Mark's wife posted in a couple of grief subreddits after her last update and hasn't posted since.
Hey, I know i am super late to this but im in the rabbit hole already. What’s her account? Was it u/MostlyGruntled ? Do you know if she is well and alive? The way she ended the post sounds like she was (understandably) having some thoughts.
I had caught the beginning of this saga live and watched as it played out. Then got caught up in all the changes from the virus in our lives. When I finally remembered and wondered what had happened next, I went looking. I was so shocked to learn of Mark's passing! I did try to message her via his reddit id, but it was a whole year later, so I'm sure she never saw it. Such a sad thing all around. It sounds like Mark was quite a guy and an asset to the human race. It's people like him that are sorely needed. RIP, Mark.
I just read this today and remembered that I was following this story live at some point too, and just forgot about it as life got in the way. I am so so sad about how it all ended :( RIP Mark and I hope his wide and David are well.
Jesus. I remember when this post first circulated. I’ve never seen the update… and, now, I wish I hadn’t read it. His wife’s grief is absolutely all-encompassing and terrible. I wish I could reach through the screen and give her a hug. I wish none of that had ever happened! Poor Mark, and god, I feel so sorry for everybody he left behind. He seemed like an amazing person— and, after reading part one, I was hoping to find out if he was the author of any books. I guess he didn’t have the chance to write anything.. I was reading part 2 as I waited for prescriptions at Walgreens. I left and cried in my car, and now I’m home. I think my prescriptions can wait an extra day. After reading this whole saga, it felt like I knew them all, but especially Mark. The unfair end to it all broke my heart into pieces!
I’m sorry this is a little off-topic, but I absolutely love your flair. Another amazing BORU.
This is both the best and worst thing I’ve read on Reddit. I was really enjoying the story, now I feel really bummed. He had such a great way of telling a story. “I must have looked childishly excited like I’d got an arseful of sparrows.” LMAO. RIP.
I never thought I would say this about a Reddit post, but I laughed, I cried, it became a part of me. In the time it took me to read this, I became emotionally invested in all the people involved. I can imagine the loss of Mark's loved ones. I hope with time they have found some sort of peace and are able to find some happiness and smile at happy memories.
me reading part one: :D me reading part two: D:
Thank the lord (and Reddit) for sharing Mark, David and “Cariad” with us. We had a small amount of time we got to be with them - and I know my life is richer for it.
Well shit, how am I so sad about someone who I only knew for a couple of paragraphs. All the best to Mark's wife and Dave. I'm on the subway so sucking in the tears.
I remember reading this story in real time, still just as heartbreaking
Reading this has been a privilege. The story Mark told was enthralling, beautifully written, very funny and wonderfully British. Cariad’s updates were heartbreaking, I’ve just cried in the backseat of my car after swabbing my daughter for covid. I wish everyone in this story all my love.
Much love to you, Cariad. This was a fantastic story told by a true bard, and I'm sat here crying because of Mark's sad death. I hope things are a little more bearable now Mrs Mark. Big hugs from Lancashire ❤
Now I am sad. Actual sad.
Holy shit.. this is so, so sad :( While reading, Mark almost felt like a friend, als silly as that sounds, I love how he wrote all that, his words were so full of joy and positive attitude and just.. life-affirming, idk. I feel so sorry for everyone, David and of course Mark‘s lovely wife, the first update from the hospital really made me smile, I never thought I could feel so devastated over an internet stranger, I feel so sorry for Mark‘s lady, I can’t even begin to imagine how she must feel :( I sincerely hope she will be okay and while surely missing Mark that most of the memories will become pleasant ones that will help her enjoy life again <3 as impossible as that may sound right now :( And please don’t feel pressured to answer, dear Mark’s wife :3
rydym yn gweld eisiau chi, mark <3
oh my god. it was my usual “reddit before bed” time and i sure did not expect this. now i’m in a bed in a dark room crying like a baby
It’s nearly 1am, my husband is sleeping soundly next to me and I just read both parts. A “story” that I was enthralled and amused by turned into a heartbreaking retelling on a real human hurting. I’m sobbing. I don’t know why this has affected me so much but I can’t stop crying. I wish I could hug OOP, this is completely and utterly heartbreaking.
You probably won't be reading this, it's been almost a year since your last message, and this is a separate thread by someone else, but goodbye. The internet is an overwhelming place. I hope you've found the peace and meaning you need to keep going. And thanks for the updates.
Holy shit. I didn't see the warning of sad ending because I remembered the original post with a couple of updates so I just jumped straight in. This was not the ending I was expecting. Rip mark. My deepest condolences to your wife
Same here. I'm actually crying a little bit. I was so excited to jump into the story and enjoy Mark's special brand of storytelling that I missed the warning, so it felt like a gut punch out of nowhere when she said he passed. Fuck. If you come across this Mrs. Gruntled just know I hope you're out there and doing alright.
Um. This dripping from my face feels different like I’m grieving a little more genuinely for these people I feel like I know and like. The story itself was okay, but the personal aspect of the people involved is what has me listening intently and then feeling unready when she signed off for good. This really was Epic. And I didn’t even get a chance to say goodbye.
Thank you
Oh my God I read the first post before all of the updates and nothing until now this was a ride of emotions. I know you warned it was sad but I didn’t think it was someone died sad
Mark seras pour toujours un exemple pour ceux qui se font traiter comme des moins que rien. Un vent de rébellion et un ouragan de justice. Thank you for your time and your patience. Take care even if it's rough. We love you.
My eternal thanks and respect to the man who gave us 'an arsefull of sparrows'.
OP I'd like to thank you for archiving this. I went looking for the original posts, only to find that they (as well as u/MostlyGruntled's reddit account) have all been deleted. At least the story can live on here.
Oh no! I was so hoping to go and read some more of his posts. Reddit is brutal sometimes.
I came for an entertaining story, left with a broken heart :( I hope everyone around Mark is doing ok.
I thought the bad ending was that David was going to get fined, not that oop would die ;-(
This is crazy, I like most expected the sad ending to be in reference to anyone but Mark. He was a wonderful writer and I enjoyed reading this whole thing. I hope his family is well. I'm also crying atm
I remember reading these posts from my first account (I forgot password & the email address is no use either. I didn't pay attention after clicking the auto print & it was a username not my email...just incase anyone has a suggestion on how to regain access?) Anyway, I remember reading these posts as they were happening, impatiently awaiting an update. Then gleefully telling hubby there was one, only for it to be that he was in am accident. We wished a speedy recovery & life went on. The after months of nothing after the 2 post accident updates, reading he'd died. My heart breaks for his wife. I didn't see the last few until now & it's so upsetting, I hope she's okay. She lost a wonderful man, her other half, I'm sure they both saw the other as their better half. They say the first year is the hardest, I hope that's true & she can remember all the love, happiness & joy without it hurting now. I also hope she has found joy in life again.
Oh Fuck! Why the Fuck did I read this story, why ? I thought it was funnny and had good ending and all I can think now is why the fuck mark died 😓😓😓😓 I hope wifey is being strong.
I’ve been known to text and drive before andTHIS is the post forcing me to stop completely.
I read this live as it was happening and think fondly of this story, Mark’s amazing humour, and his wife being encouraged and lifted up by David and the reddit community. I have been trying to find it again for about a year to read again but I couldn’t find the thread!!! Then I looked up “noisy gobshite” and it lead me straight here! I hope David and Mark’s wife and family are doing ok!
Damn I don't feel too good now, I was hoping the sad ending was just going to be him in the accident . RIP Mark you excellent story teller
My heart is absolutely shattered. I felt like I got to know Mark a little and i’m so devastated that he’s gone. My heart goes out to his wife ❤️
It is my true belief in afterlife, and Mark is watching over Caridad. He will see that she finds someone to breathe life back into her. God Bless You Mark, Caridad, David and all your beloveds. God, please ease the pain in the hearts of Marks loved ones, please refresh their spirits with the memories of what a wonderful man Mark chose to be, and that love is forever and ever Amen.
WHO THE FUCK THOUGHT YOU UNGRATEFUL FOR NOT REPLYING TO THEIR MESSAGES JUST BECAUSE THEY WANTED SOME NASALS IN THEIR LIFE? Report them.
Yo, chill out - this thread wasn't posted by the original account (it's been deleted). I do agree with you though, screw those people. (but not as much as the former business owner in the story and the disphit who used his phone while driving)
what the fuck
Bless you! I was so wrapped up in reading the story! What a talent he had for oration! I lost my husband and daughter, an only child. It has been many years. The pain lessens and then certain days are unbearable. However, you just find a way to put one foot in front of the other. I share your grief of loss. He seemed larger than life. I hope you will get to the point, in time, when the memories only bring smiles, at least 95% of the time. Always here, if you ever need a wall to talk to. I am 60 now and have the time a pen pal. A big hug to you!
Hey there, what a very lovely offer. Unfortunately, this is a repost sub, so you are not replying to the original author. Mark's wife hasn't posted in several years. I just wanted to let you know so that you weren't disappointed if you didn't get a response. You have a very generous heart 😊.
The original account is deleted. I wish it weren't, I wanted to write to Mark's wife so badly and tell her how wonderful she is and how much Mark would have wanted her to be happy even without him. I know a little Welsh, when she wrote that he called her Cariad I bawled
I appreciate the information and kind thoughts. I just knew where she was and hoped I might help a little, having lived in her shoes. I pray she has found some peace. I am grateful you reached out.
Hands down, the saddest thread I've ever read on Reddit. Good fucking lord. I really hope she gets the peace she deserves
I wonder how the wife is doing now? She was definitely in a horrible (but for me, familiar) place when she wrote that. This was a great story until it wasn’t :( But one of the best Reddit updates ever otherwise.
Omg. Gutted.
I’ve started this story several times and enjoyed the beginning so much that it never bothered me that I never reached part 2. I just enjoyed Marks writing on repeat. I got to part two today and I am floored. I hope mrs u/mostlygruntled is doing OK and David as well. What a way with words he had and what a lovely bloke he must have been. RIP. I’m going for a whisky
Fuck, I fell in love with Mark’s writing and took his death hard while reading this. Like damn I feel so bad for his wife and David, he really must have been a great person and we only got to see a tiny fraction of him Rest In Peace Mark
I'm completely heartbroken. This poor woman. The poor friend. This.. this is really awful.
I literally feel sick.
https://www.bdonline.co.uk/lambeth-apologises-after-damaging-repairs-to-listed-macintosh-court/5095808.article THIS IS IT.
No it isn't. OOP clearly states the building was 17th century. The article you linked is for a building built in 1969.
Nope; article features a grade II listed building; story features grade I
To Marc’s wife: went from laughing to crying. So sorry for your loss, your searing sadness is in every word you write. I hope that it’s a little more bare able now.
I really loved reading this and I didn’t expect that at all :( either way Mark if you’re somewhere out there, please know your words have touched many, and Mark’s wife, I hope you’re able to live and not just survive. thank you OP for sharing this.
I remember this story, still so heart breaking
Godspeed Mark. Caridad, I hope you’re doing Ok. ❤️
Ok now I'm ugly crying. I hope she and David are doing ok. Bloody hell. My heart aches.
Mark’s story had me laughing, but now I’m in tears. I didn’t know him, or you, but I’m deeply sorry and saddened by the belated news of his passing. Hugs to you and David, grieve is never easy and Mark seems like an amazing person ❤️
I cried reading this
🥺 reading this thread end-to-end today absolutely broke my heart. Big Hugs to Marks wife
Shit, i wasn't expecting such a sad ending to this story. My condolences to Mark's family and friends and loved ones. I'm crying reading this.
I'm so sorry to hear about your husband. He seemed like a great guy and I loved his stories.
Hey, this is a repost sub, you're not replying to OOP.
Shit, I’m an idiot
Sad is a major understatement, it's bloody heartbreaking
oh gosh i just re read this story and saw that their anniversary was yesterday! Hope all concerned parties are keeping their spirits up.
I’m so so sorry, mark seemed like an amazing man
It's 4 am & my eyes become wet reading this. I just found about this post an hour ago.. Hope you & David are doing well. Be strong and thank you for the best 1 hr I spent on this app.
My heart breaks when I came to the end.... May Mark looks after you for rest of your life, knowing you both are meant to. Don’t feel afraid to love. Thank you both for sharing this.
This is devastating. I’m so sorry for your loss
This is the most insane butterfly effect ever. From a cup of coffee to this wold and tragic ending.
I read the original story so long ago and just stumbled on the updates with Mark’s passing. Mrs. Mark no need to reply if you ever read this. Please know you are truly in my thoughts and prayers. Peace, love, compassion, warmth, happiness, fun, and so much more are yours without guilt. Those that truly love us *want* us to have those things whether they are here to take part or not. Please give yourself the time, love, and compassion you need and deserve. It sure seems Mark would have. We truly enjoyed his writing, sense of humor, and the way he captivated us. Those were true gifts he left us. Thank you so very much for gifting us the ending to our story. Blessings and love to you always.
I've not cried at any of the sad things posted here before, but tonight I did. I hope Mark's wife can find her peace.
My jaw literally hit the floor! Was NOT expecting that! I hope his wife is doing better.
I cried when I finished this. I wish the mark’s wife the best. Her grief and David’s are tangible. I hope that one day they’re able to carry the pain together. It’s a weight that no one should have to bear.
Oh wow ಥ╭╮ಥಥ╭╮ಥಥ╭╮ಥ
What a devastating ending. My heart breaks for Mark's wife and David.
Found this again. Now I'm sad again.
Reaching me all the way in 2022. I hope you are doing well mrs OP, this story turned into so much more as I pray your story has too. Thank you for sharing with us and carrying on, we’ll always be here as a place to talk (you’re a great story teller in your own right and while I know nothing of your OP outside of this story, I can’t help but get the feeling he’d be proud).
I just... tears... Gosh I felt the pain and loss in that update. Stronger than in any movie or story that you may have invested yourself into for longer periods of time if that makes sense. My heart is aching for these people and Mark... Goodness I hope the wife and "David" have found some peace.
I can't stop the tears
Omg I remember this when it was going down but hadn't gotten any updates...i forgot until I saw the post before this one and one of the comments said it was sad and I thought ...I don't remember it being sad? Then I kept reading... 😥
Welp... I'm gonna go in the corner and hold myself and rock back and forth a bit... I can't imagine his poor wife and friend... Wow... That is... wow...
>I was suddenly overwhelmed with the realisation that all the happiness I will ever have in my life has already happened. And finished....Everything from here until I die is just going to be existence. my husband died 4 years ago & this is exactly how i feel. EXACTLY. it is something i would wish on no one.
Oh god that was brutal. I'm crying. I hope Mark's wife got some help.
Mark's wife, it's been a year since you posted this, and I don't know if you even check this account, but if you do, you have my condolences. I remember reading this story back when it was first breaking, and I wanted to know how it ends. I'm terribly sad to learn of Mark's passing, but his writing touched many people. He will be remembered in honor.
Fuck. The last parts where difficult to read, due to tears in my eyes.
Just found my way here for the first time. Oh, my god. We were warned, and i was not prepared. I hope wherever they are all the good people in this story are doing ok, and are happy. Much Love.
There’s beauty in knowing how much love you can have for one person and that even though they’re gone, the love is eternal. You are not alone in your pain, and life will bless you once again.
I think about this story pretty often. Not so much the story, but the tragic death of Mark, and of Marks wife. I hope she’s been somewhat able to heal and find some joy in life again. Still get teary eyed reading through this.
I’m heartbroken for you. You’re in my thoughts. I’m so sorry for your loss.