BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) – Mark Mortenson, the president and CEO of the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, has died, the Botanical Gardens announced Sunday.
“Mark was a visionary leader who embodied the spirit of our 'Wow, Wonder, Welcome' philosophy, enriching the experience of every guest who visited our Gardens,” the Botanical Gardens said in a statement. “His warmth, generosity, and dedication made a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him.”
Mortensen took over as the Botanical Gardens’ president and CEO in February 2022. He previously served as the executive director of the Richardson Center Corporation and before that, he was the president and CEO of the Buffalo Museum of Science.
The Botanical Gardens will be closed on Monday and Tuesday and the Botanical Bash on Sept. 20 has been canceled.