It is with tremendous sadness to share that the world, the camping world and the Camp Towanda family has lost one of its great ones. Mark “Z" Zides, who was so much more than the Operations Director for 28 years.

A close friend, the dictionary definition of “top shelf” reliability and professionalism.

Z impacted the lives of generations of campers, staff, alumni and colleagues. A one-of-a-kind special man who contributed so much to so many. A true Legend.

Z’s journey in camping started long before Towanda — at Camps Roosevelt, Sequoia, Summit — and then for nearly three decades with Camp Towanda.

Z’s impact went far beyond Camp Towanda, including his dedication and unwavering involvement and leadership with the American Camp Association, Wayne County Camp Alliance, New York State Camp Directors Association, Pennsylvania Camp Association and countless other organizations.

Z spearheaded state legislature that benefited and protected all camps. He maintained communication and contact with everyone; there was no one like Z.

Proudly, Z received the Legend of Camping Award last March at the Tri-State Camp Conference in front of thousands and just last summer, the “Alley” at Camp Towanda was dedicated in his honor.

Z battled Leukemia over the past few years, had been in remission. In just recent weeks, as strong, positive, proud and tough as he was, complications compounded. Our thoughts, love, support and condolences are with his wife Joyce, Kyle “KJ” and the entire Zides family.

At this time, the family asks for privacy and will have a “Celebration of Life” in the Spring.

“We had no problems, we had Z”. Rest in peace, Z-Man.