The Rogue Rapids is honored to offer swim team scholarships in the memory of Sofia Marks.

Sofia Octavia Marks was born on March 25th, 2005 to her parents, Megan and Gary Marks. Sofia was a kind, intelligent, and reflective young woman who possessed a clever wit and a big heart. She was deeply dedicated to her studies, her interests, and most of all, her beloved family, friends, and pets. Throughout her life, Sofia pursued a diverse variety of interests and talents: she was a talented musician who studied piano from the age of 8 and played the violin. As a high school student, she played with the North Medford High School concert and chamber orchestra. She had a passion for math and science and was a member of the Stellar Explorers Astrophysics Team. She loved to read, sew, create art, solve complex puzzles, watch movies, and spend time with family and friends. She was an excellent student who held a 4.0+ GPA at North Medford High School. And Sofia loved to swim.

Sofia started swimming in her grandmother’s pool when she was about one year old. She was a little nervous about it at first, but quickly learned to love the water. She took lessons from various programs around the valley.  Her love of swimming led her to become a junior lifeguard at Jackson Pool and to compete with the North Medford High School swim team. She loved being part of the swim team and the good friends that came with it. 

In 2020, Sofia was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of bone cancer.  This did not diminish her love for swimming. Even after surgeries or treatments, she would return to the pool just as soon as her doctor gave her the OK. For almost three years, her courage, positive attitude, dedication, and warrior spirit enabled her to fight her disease with grace and hope. Whenever possible, she continued to live her life to the fullest, focusing on the joyful moments.

In the early morning of July 14th, 2023, Sofia passed away, surrounded by the presence, love, and support of her parents. In her short 18 years, Sofia demonstrated more patience, perseverance, and acceptance than many of us do in a lifetime. Sofia was truly a hero to us all and she will forever be missed, loved, and adored by all those whose lives she deeply touched.

In 2024, the Marks family created the Sofia Marks Scholarship Fund to create opportunities for children to participate in the Rogue Rapids Swim Team. The scholarship has already enabled multiple swimmers to participate in the swim team. The Rogue Rapids are grateful and honored by the opportunity to share in Sofia’s memory, and for the generosity of the Marks family in helping local children explore their love for swimming. 

To apply for the scholarship, please click below: