Put a Chicago team in the playoffs and Mark became a kid again. He may have voiced his dissatisfaction with pro sports and athletes; but, it only took a chance at a Chicago championship and he was glued to the TV and totally engaged. The Cubs took it all last October and I remember how happy he was. If you grow up in Chicago and live north of the river, you are a Cubs fan (except for CD but we won't discuss that here). Tonight, they are beating Washington and I know Mark would have liked to see them go to the playoffs again.
Mark would always be ready to talk about sports. He was deeply interested in the sports that his nieces and nephews played. I think this allowed him to connect with people even when he got more distanced from them.
he was excited. it was around the last time i heard from him.