Mark Anthony Simone

Mark Anthony Simone, age 69, of Chagrin Falls, formerly of Ravenna. Beloved husband of Kathy; loving father of Daniel (Katie), Lindsey, Eryn and Nicholas; brother of Jonathon, Matthew and Ronald; grandfather of Toby (Samantha), Jakob (Eryka), Soren, Serenity, Charlie and Lincoln; uncle and friend to many.

Known for his irrepressible sense of humor, love of music, and love for adventure, Mark lived a life of service and compassion, truly and completely. As a youth minister, he touched hundreds of young lives as the co-director of King's Kids summer camps, and led dozens of charity work camps across the US, as well as internationally in Canada and South Africa. He authored several books, exhibited his photography, worked on multiple documentary films, was inducted into the Ravenna High School Hall of Fame, spoke internationally about ministering to youth, and officiated weddings and funerals for hundreds, including the families of past-presidents, movie producers and actors - including one wedding in a plane that the couple skydived out of after their vows. Known as "Sabelo" in South Africa, and "Sparky" to family and friends, his motto was a tongue-in-cheek "Safety Third" whether he was roofing houses in post-Katrina New Orleans, building the first AIDS care village in South Africa, rehabbing homes in impoverished Native American reservations.

He earned several Guinness World records for setting himself and others on fire, rode ostriches and elephants, ran marathons and triathlons, played guitar and sang in bands, and made everyone he met feel welcome wherever he was.

Relatives and friends received at ST. JOHN FUNERAL HOME, 16381 CHILLICOTHE RD, BAINBRIDGE TOWNSHIP, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7 from 3-7 P.M. followed by a service at First Congregational Church, 266 S. Chestnut St, Ravenna on Saturday, February 8 at 11 AM.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial gifts to the First Congregational Church of Ravenna's local mission fund.