Mark Alan Sakal

Mark Alan Sakal, 65, of Elyria, OH, passed away gracefully Tuesday, April 29, 2025, surrounded by his loving sons, after a courageous battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia at The Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland.  

Mark was born August 23, 1959, in Elyria, OH, to Edwin and Shirley (née Smith) Sakal. He graduated from Elyria High School in 1977 where he was a talented athlete that played varsity baseball.  

From a young age, Mark cherished spending time outdoors with his father, mother, brother, and neighborhood friends. He discovered an enduring passion for baseball and would go on to become a highly skilled and accomplished player. Mark was an avid fan of 70’s and 80’s Rock n’ Roll music, enjoyed playing poker and card games, and treasured fishing trips with his family on Lake Erie — especially with his father. Mark was also a devoted Ohio State football fan, which fostered special connections with his mother, brother, and youngest son.

On May 3, 1986, Mark married Terri (née Foss) Sakal, whom he met at the Elyria Elks Club. Together, they shared a cherished marriage of 30.5 years filled with bowling, boating, relaxing by the pool, spending Friday evenings at the LaGrange Tavern listening to their favorite jukebox tunes, attending baseball games with their children, cooking incredible Saturday night dinners, and enjoying time with family, neighbors, and close friends.

Mark was extremely proud of his two sons. He would ride the vomit-inducing roller coasters many times over with Matt, sparking his passion and eventual career in the theme park industry. He would also support and coach Tyler during his summer baseball leagues. Mark prioritized being there for his family and to provide unwavering love, support, and protection.

Mark had a dedicated career spanning over 40 years as a truck driver, initially with Jefferson Trucking, where he cultivated lifelong friendships, and later with R&J Trucking. In early 2021, he retired and eagerly looked forward to a new chapter following knee replacement surgery.

In retirement, Mark enthusiastically went on trips to Las Vegas, particularly the cherished Christmas trip tradition with his sons, enjoying slots and blackjack. He also enjoyed fishing trips on charter boats in New York with his brother, visits with his sons, playing slots at MGM Northfield Park, avidly following sports, and weekly gatherings for breakfast with close friends known as “The Breakfast Club.”

Mark is survived by his sons, Matt Sakal of Orlando, FL, and Tyler Sakal of Pittsburgh, PA; brother, Rick (Cathy) Sakal of Cumming, GA; brother-in-law, Jeff (Lori) Foss of Elyria, OH; nieces, Tara (Blake) Hall, Katie Sakal, Kristen (Chris) Humphrey; and nephew, Kyle (Laura) Foss.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Terri (née Foss) Sakal, in 2016; father, Edwin Sakal, in 2010; and mother, Shirley (née Smith) Sakal, in 1984.

Friends will be received Saturday, May 10, 2025 from 2:00 pm until the time of a 5:00 pm service to celebrate Mark's life at Dicken Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 323 Middle Avenue, Elyria. A gathering will follow the service at the Elyria Elks Club.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Mark’s honor to Cast It Forward at 4259 Hawkins Rd., Richfield, Ohio 44286 or https://castitforwardfishing.com

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