Mark King

Mark Alan King, 66, passed away on September 18, 2025, in Poughkeepsie, New York. Born on January 20, 1959, in Ithaca, New York, Mark lived a life defined by passion, generosity, and unwavering faith.

From an early age, Mark stood out as a natural athlete. In high school, he excelled in football and wrestling-his talent earning him a scholarship and setting the tone for a life filled with energy and determination. Whether skiing down snowy slopes, teeing off on the golf course, or sitting around a table playing Texas Hold'em or any board game that offered a challenge, Mark's competitive spirit was always present. He played to win but more importantly to connect-with laughter that could fill a room and stories that captivated everyone around him.

For almost 50 years, Mark was a skilled journeyman carpenter and owner of Mighty K and King Construction. He loved to build and this also added countless meaningful relationships with businesses, and customers as well as his team of workers (his crew) that he called family.



Mark's strength extended far beyond physical pursuits. He was deeply involved in a 12-step recovery fellowship and became a beacon of hope for thousands over the years. His commitment to helping others went beyond words-he employed those who needed second chances and made himself and home available at all hours to offer guidance or simply listen. Mark believed in being used by God for good and lived each day with purpose and compassion.

A man of deep spirituality, Mark loved the Lord with all his heart. He was a walking example of love and grace, living out his belief that "to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord." His faith was not just spoken-it was lived through action, kindness, and an unshakable sense of integrity.

Mark is survived by his beloved wife, Diana Ackerson King, his son Thomas Ackerson, his "adopted" daughter, Gianna Caffaro; his devoted mother, Jane Claflin; loving sisters, Sharon (Gary) Pichany & Cathy (Robert-deceased) Larson; brother, Michael (Mary) King; and countless cousins, nieces, and nephews and close friends who he considered family, who were touched by his warmth and huge stoic personality. He joins in eternal rest his brother David King and two fathers, Donald King & Donald Claflin who predeceased him.

Brave, hardworking, talented, passionate-Mark embodied these qualities fully. He was generous to a fault and selfless in ways that left lasting impressions on everyone he met. Intelligent and athletic with a thunderous laugh that echoed joyfully through every gathering-he loved deeply and lived boldly. Known for saying it's better to ask for forgiveness than permission, Mark approached life fearlessly. His heart was enormous-as was his stoic character.

Though he lived only 66 years by the calendar's count, Mark packed in what felt like 99 years of living-each day embraced with gratitude and vigor. His legacy will live on through the lives he touched so profoundly.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and inspiration to all who hear his story. A Celebration of Life will be held on September 28, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 05:00 PM at The Ability Center 982 Main Street. A 2nd celebration of life service will be held in Ithaca on Oct. 5th from 1-5 at 178 Enfield Main Road, where most of his family resides.