Mark Horton was a local, state, national leader of firefighters. Mark was born into a firefighting family; his father was chief of the Sheffield Township Fire Department. Mark joined the Elyria Fire Department in 1979 and eventually became the Union President. Mark was known as a mentor to many who taught the right way to fight fires, deal with the public, and be a professional.
After retirement in 2008 Mark continued to serve firefighters throughout the state as secretary/treasurer of the Ohio Professional Firefighters Association, he died in February of 2017 on his way to a Health and Safety Conference, he was given Line of Duty Death Status by the International Association of Firefighters and his name was inscribed on the memorial in Colorado Springs.
“Mark’s passion and legacy should never be forgotten and every firefighter coming through the doors on Cedar Street should be reminded of his contributions to the EFD and its citizens everyday driving down “Horton Way”, he deserves it, and everyone hereafter donning our patch will be reminded of the “Horton Way”.” EFD Chief Joe Pronesti.
Tianna Madison is Elyria’s accomplished Olympian and overall track and field phenom. She has won three gold medals including leading off the gold winning/world record-setting 4x100m relay race in the 2012 Olympics. She went on to win two more gold medals in 2016 in long jump. Tianna is a graduate of Elyria High School and the University of Tennessee.
Ike Maxwell, Elyria’s legendary football player that along with Les Miles, led the Elyria Pioneers 1971 football team to an undefeated season. Ike was All-Ohio and All-America and was awarded the Golden helmet in 1971.
“We take great pride in the placement of these historical markers that will provide residents and visitors with an opportunity to learn about the significant contributions of Elyria’s history,” said Elyria Mayor Frank Whitfield. “These markers are a testament to our commitment to honoring and celebrating the history of Elyria and its people and a wonderful way to ensure future generations are able to learn about the individuals that shaped our great city.”
We have organizations who have already requested additional honors be made for Elyrians and we hope that the city will continue to identify and celebrate those who have contributed to making Elyria what it is today.
The individuals honored today are:
- Mark Horton – Cedar Street
- Tianna Madison – Middle Avenue
- Ike Maxwell – 13th street
Pictured below is a picture of Mark Horton’s family at the newly installed historical marker and a picture of Mark’s wife Barbara Burrill Horton in front of the Elyria Fire Department Truck.
