Con Mark Slack's Obituary
It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Con Mark Slack on February 18, 2026, in Escondido, CA. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, mentor and friend. Con was born in Iowa in 1941, the middle-son to Roscoe and Eleanor Slack and split his time between home and the Lambert’s farm where his love of caring for animals grew. He began his journey as an artist in elementary school and was often tasked by administrators to create works of art on behalf of the school and community. He started painting signs and pinstriping cars in middle school in his spare time. He was an active, successful Eagle Scout, and was athletic, enjoying and excelling in all sports, until making his way out west. Con called Southern California home for over 60 years living primarily in Vista, Fallbrook, and Escondido. He loved music and dancing to include West Coast swing and even tap dancing with his daughter. Con was a master craftsman and carpenter, owning “Con Slack Specialties,” where he applied his artistry, woodworking, and construction expertise in extensive residential and small custom construction projects. He built his wife’s dream log home, from the ground-up in his spare time including details like the stained-glass front door he designed and hand carved. This home, well-known in the community, was lovingly called, “The Slack Shack.”
From the moment he arrived in San Diego, Con’s fascination with palm trees began and he was involved with the local chapter of the Palm Society, grew ferns and palm trees as a side business, and eventually managed his small avocado grove in Fallbrook. He would often take his wife on long driving detours to look at his favorite specimens. Con never fully retired, but as his construction projects slowed, his love of art re-kindled and found expression in paintings, sketches, and toys he designed and made for children. He was heavily involved in his local art community, participating in classes, art groups, exhibits, winning numerous awards for his works. He was never without his sketchbook and never missed the opportunity to engage someone with his art, searching for that spark in the other person’s eye to begin a conversation.
Con was preceded in death by his parents, wife Ellen Maxine Slack (Drew), stepson Steven Michael Shirk, and his beloved pets. He is survived by his brothers, daughter, stepdaughter, stepson, grandchildren and great grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held on March 21, 2026, at 411 Leclair Lane, Escondido, CA, 92026 at 2:00 in the afternoon. For more information please email: [email protected]. Family members are updating https://www.conslack.com regularly with more of his artwork for everyone to enjoy online. Please take a look!
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Palm Society of Southern California, website: https://www.palmssc.starchapter.com or the Escondido Art Association, website: https://www.escoarts.com on their membership page.
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