Mark Straus

SARATOGA SPRINGS —Mark Straus, born September 14, 1948, in Yonkers, NY passed away at the age of 75 on September 13, 2024 after a long battle with cancer. 

A graduate of Roosevelt high school he went on to college at SUNY Albany where he met the love of his life, Elizabeth. The two were inseparable for 56 years.

With his wife Elizabeth, he moved to Saratoga Springs in 1971 where they opened Mabou, a store which grew into a landmark downtown business. Upon moving to Saratoga, Mark took joy in helping the Plan of Action committee and its great achievement in preserving the historic architecture and revitalizing the businesses downtown. The Saratoga Historic Preservation Society presented him with a lifetime achievement award in 2012. His focus on the community of Saratoga Springs and its support of small businesses was always a great passion of his. He was also instrumental in founding the Saratoga Waldorf School with close friends from the community.  Mark was always one to offer his help to anyone and everyone. 

He treasured most highly his time with his family, which he is survived by his wife Elizabeth, brother Stuart, son Alexander, daughter Lucy, son in law Rory Moran, and grandchildren Lex, Cleo, and Lily. We invite all those whose lives he touched in his special way through his care, love, and wisdom.

Family and friends may call from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 24, at the Tunison Funeral Home, located at 105 Lake Ave, Saratoga Springs NY 12866. 

Memorial donations can be to the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation, 112 Spring St. Suite 203, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 or Donate Now – Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation (saratogapreservation.org) or the Saratoga Waldorf School, 62 York Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Elevate Education: Join Our Annual Fund at Waldorf School of Saratoga Springs — Waldorf School of Saratoga Springs (waldorfsaratoga.org)

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