In Memory of Mr. Coral Gables
In February, the City of Coral Gables was shocked by the unexpected passing of Mark A. Trowbridge, the CEO and president of the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce. A man of exceptional talent, in the course of 20 years at the head of the Chamber he elevated that body to pre-eminent status statewide, along with creating a sense of community with events like Burgerlicious, the Businesswomen of the Year, and the Chamber’s Wind Down Wednesdays. He was also among the most sought-after speakers and event hosts, where his quick wit and powerful voice won over crowds. And, of course, he was also a tireless promoter of small businesses in the Gables, for which he will be long remembered – and missed. We invited members of the community who knew him best to comment on our collective loss.
An amazing and inspiring man is what I think of when I remember my dear friend Mark Trowbridge. His passion for his work and community was unsurpassed, but what truly made Mark special was his care and concern for those that were fortunate enough to call him a friend. He lifted up those around him. His love and vivaciousness for life was amazing, mixed with the perfect dose of sarcasm! I was honored to lead the Coral Gables Chamber alongside Mark in 2010-11 as Chairman of the Board and have considered him one of my favorite people ever since. Mister Coral Gables, as we knew him, leaves a lasting legacy for us all. The City of Coral Gables, the greater Miami community, and all those who knew him will forever be grateful and better for it!
Drew Kern
Former Chair, Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce
Mark was my dearest friend and “partner in crime.” We attended so many Coral Gables events and gatherings, like plays at Actors’ Playhouse, a cabana at the Biltmore pool, countless lunches and dinners, and traveled to NYC each year to catch Broadway shows. There wasn’t a person he didn’t know. He was the funniest person in the room and had so many interests, like The Children’s Trust, Seraphic Fire, Miami-Dade Libraries, New World School of the Arts, and SAVE Dade. But wanting to make the Coral Gables community better was always his number one priority. Mark was our community’s guiding light and made every one of us feel like he was our best friend. He always had a huge smile, an infectious laugh, and a big Chamber of Commerce “Welcome!” I’ll miss him terribly.
Sarah Artecona
Former Chair, Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce
My last three words to Mark were “Good for you,” words many of us said as he courageously navigated his health journey. Ten minutes after that text, Mark called paramedics. I never thought I would be looking back at my friendship with Mark; no one did. Shifting my mind from denial to a place of fond memories is a huge challenge, and a work in progress. His friendship was grand, yummy, fun, deep, and loyal. We had countless calls, selfies, meals, laughs, adventures, and talks where we shared accomplishments and frustrations with one another. He remembered EVERYTHING, and that allowed us to enjoy the past almost as much as the present. I look back at those days with full gratitude for my friendship with Mark.
Andria Dickinson
Former Chair, Coral Gables Community Foundation
I’ve always likened Mark’s zest and fervor to that of what we’ve all read of George Merrick’s personality. Like so many, Mark highly respected what the founder of our City Beautiful created in Coral Gables – and his love and appreciation for our community showed in everything he undertook. Mark was steadfast and fiercely passionate in his pursuit to support the Gables’ growth in all arenas – from business development to charitable endeavors. He had a wonderful heart for people and relationships. Many referred to Mark as a “super host” – one of the most welcoming and exceedingly kind individuals. Yes, the city’s economic success was important to Mark; but all the more so was his focus on enhancing a community where residents and guests would enjoy each other’s company and flourish for generations to come. Mark was truly one of those friends who others would claim as a best friend.
Ron Shuffield
Former Chair, Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce
There are so many things to be said about Mark A. Trowbridge. He was an amazing community builder who skillfully navigated the complexities of our world. A true history buff, Mark could share endless stories about Lincoln and Churchill as if he had been in the room when those events unfolded. His wit and engaging presence made him truly larger than life. During COVID, we created a virtual book club that met for an hour each month. Mark loved arranging these meetings, collaborating with authors, and working closely with his favorite bookseller, Mitch Kaplan from Books & Books. He thrived when immersed in creative projects, with ideas flowing effortlessly. Brilliant and irreverent, Mark was more than just an advocate for small businesses and all things Coral Gables; he was a cherished friend.
Sara Hernandez
Former Chair, Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce
Mark Trowbridge was the heart and soul of Coral Gables, a leader whose larger-than-life presence and engaging personality uplifted the city. As president and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce, Mark didn’t just support the business community – he inspired it. Mark had a rare gift for seeing potential and turning dreams into reality. After reading my play, “Greetings from Paradise,” about early Miami and Coral Gables, he immediately wrapped his arms around it. Thanks to his vision and enthusiasm, opening night, April 29, is now the marquee event for both the City of Coral Gables and the Chamber’s Centennial Celebrations. He even auditioned for the role of Doc Dammers, Coral Gables’ first mayor – fitting, as Mark’s own charisma and passion mirrored Doc’s. His warmth, humor, and leadership made our city a better place. While we mourn his loss, we also celebrate the incredible legacy he leaves behind.
June Morris
Philanthropist
There are so many memories, but… the laughter we shared in NYC, dinner at Pastis with rosé and French fries, followed by singing our hearts out at Marie’s Crisis. The time we took a golf cart tour in the rain in D.C., the day he came to meet my son Henry the very day after I brought him home. Or the sweetest moment, when he came to meet my other son Finn, only two weeks old, and Mark was in chemo treatment so he couldn’t hold him. But he was there, making me laugh through those tough early days, bringing books for Finn to learn and discover everything the world has to offer. And that is the kind of friend that he was, always there when you needed with a smile and a twinkle of mischief in his eyes.
Francesca Madeo Valdes
Former Business Development Specialist, City of Coral Gables
Mark Trowbridge found joy everywhere – in making this community ever more special through the Chamber, in wisdom for the Junior League, in cheering for the Gators, etc. The beneficiaries of his generous soul and deep wisdom will go on and on. Over the years, I must have talked with Mark hundreds of times; I cannot remember a single moment of disagreeableness. Nor do I remember anyone bringing more joy to any audience, any community or nonprofit gathering, or anyone at all. Mark and I shared a deep love for Mr. Lincoln, our mutual favorite President. Mark brought love and optimism to all of us. Surely, everyone was his friend. I am reminded again how quickly life can go. But love does not need to go. And his love and life will stay with us.
David Lawrence Jr.
Former Miami Herald Publisher and Chair of the Children’s Movement of Florida
It is with a heavy heart that I say goodbye to my dear friend, Mark Trowbridge. Losing Mark is not just a loss for our community – it is a deeply personal loss for all of us who had the privilege of knowing him, working alongside him, and calling him a friend.One of the things I will miss most is our trips to Tallahassee. Those journeys weren’t just about work—they were filled with stories, jokes, and laughter that seemed to make time slow down. Mark had this incredible ability to turn even the most mundane moments into cherished memories. He made sure that no matter the setting, there was always room for a smile, a lighthearted story, or a moment of camaraderie that reminded us why we do what we do. He was also a hands-on leader.
One project we worked on together was the campaign to keep the downtown free of litter. His chamber organized repeated clean-up events that he participated in. I remember one night when we were both leaving an event at the Coral Gables Museum and came across trash in the swale. He grabbed a plastic trash bag from the museum and with his “Common, Mr. Mayor” cajoled me into cleaning up the litter with him.
On a bigger stage he was larger than life, in the best way possible. Everyone wanted him to MC their events, and with his bassoon voice and genius for quips he would disarm everybody in the room. His ability to connect people, to lift them up, was a rare and beautiful gift. Mark’s impact on the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce, on this city, and on all of us who knew him will never fade.
Vince Lago
Mayor, City of Coral Gables
For almost 20 years, Mark was part of my work family. And when you spend more hours at work than home, your work family becomes part of your real family. He was infamous for his dry humor. He was unapologetically honest, had the memory of an elephant, and always kept me up to date on all the town gossip. Mark was always there when I needed advice or just needed to vent. I admired his commitment to Coral Gables- showing up to any and all meetings and events even when he felt under the weather. He loved the city and always supported us no matter the consequences – and for that, I am eternally grateful. I still can’t believe you’re gone. RIP Markster
Belkys Perez
Director, Coral Gables Economic Development Department
I would like to extend our deepest condolences on Mark’s passing. I will remember him for his leadership and commitment to shaping the business culture in Coral Gables, and for being an outstanding pillar of our community. Mark was a great friend to all, always lifting everyone’s spirits, and he will be very missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family; may they please accept my heartfelt sympathies during this difficult time.
Eddie Cutillas
VP, Corporate Services & Community Relations Bacardi