Mark Edward Knott

Growing up, Mark Edward Knott’s family lived on land within the Sand Run Metro Park. He loved to explore the nearby forest and ravines he called the “boywoods.”

Mark, 41, died on May 25, 2022 in New York City, where he had moved to 5 years ago.

His mother Mary Ciriello said he was a beautiful and high energy boy who loved to sing and always enjoyed the outdoors.

He lived in Akron and suburban Cleveland most of his life.

He was an observer of people and loved to entertain. His sense of humor was legendary, and he loved to sing! (especially Sinatra)

She said her son came out as gay as a teenager and suffered from extreme periods of loneliness.

He dealt with mental health and substance abuse issues much of his adult life. 

Though he had made friends while in New York, the isolation of the pandemic took a toll on him, his mother said.

He grasped at anything to ease the loneliness he faced, she said.

Just before he died, he sent his mother a photo of himself wearing a sport coat and white shirt with a purple tie.

The photo he sent his mother made her believe he was preparing for a new life.

His friends told his mother that Mark was at peace and had gone through a spiritual awakening in recent months. 

The poem entitled A Pueblo Blessing has given her and his family comfort. 

It reads:

“Hold onto what is good even if it is a handful of earth.

Hold onto what you believe even if it is a tree that stands alone.

Hold onto what you must do even if it is a long way from here.

Hold onto life even if it’s easier to let go.

Hold onto my hand, even when I have gone away from you.”

Mark leaves behind a loving family and many wonderful friends. 

A private graveside service will be held at a later date. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mark Edward Knott, please visit our floral store.