Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens will light up blue in memory of Mark Mortenson

Mayor Byron Brown declares Sept. 20, 2024, as ‘Mark Mortenson Day’ in City of Buffalo

√ Erie County Legislature to issue a proclamation at next week’s legislative session

Press Release 

Today, the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens will illuminate its iconic South Park Avenue conservatory in blue to honor the late Mark Mortenson, the organization’s beloved president and CEO who passed away on Sept. 14. This tribute coincides with a celebration of Mark’s life hosted by the Maranto-Mortenson family.

In recognition of Mark’s contributions to the Western New York community, Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown has issued a memorial proclamation, officially declaring today as “Mark Mortenson Day” in the City of Buffalo, as part of the Botanical Gardens’ tribute. Additionally, the Erie County Legislature will recognize Mark’s accomplishments with an official proclamation during next week’s legislative session.

“On behalf of the Maranto-Mortenson family and the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, we extend our deepest gratitude to Erie County, the City of Buffalo, and the entire Western New York community for joining us in honoring Mark’s memory,” said Erin Grajek, COO of the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens. “Sept. 20, 2024, will forever be a day to remember and celebrate the profound and lasting impact of Mark’s legacy on our community, through his dedicated years of service in nonprofit and preservation work.”

Brown said, “My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mark Mortenson, an outstanding leader in our community. It is my honor to issue a proclamation declaring Friday, Sept. 20, 2024, as ‘Mark Mortenson Day’ in the City of Buffalo as a tribute to all that he accomplished to make our community a more inclusive, equitable place to live, work and raise a family. May this honor bring comfort to his family during this difficult time, knowing Mark was loved and admired by so many in the City of Good Neighbors, including me.”

Erie County Legislature Chairwoman April Baskin said, “Mark Mortenson’s passing is a tremendous loss for our community. It is an honor for the Erie County Legislature to present a proclamation celebrating his life and achievements at our next formal session. We look forward to commemorating his invaluable contributions with his family and those who worked alongside him.”