Mark Wayne Knecht formerly of Britton South Dakota, passed away November 16, 2025 in Portland Oregon after a decline in health. Mark was the son of Henry Wayne and MarGarett E. (Johnson) Knecht. Mark was an ambitious person and nothing stopped him once his mind was made up. He was active in many organizations including DAV, ARC, Fraternal order of the Eagles, Salem First Baptist Church, with AWANA, Upward basketball as a referee, Prison Ministry through his church, St. Marks Lutheran Church, kids summer church camps, baked goodies when needed for refreshments after church, worked in food service just to name a few. He enjoyed attending the Trail Blazers basketball games, even after being a double leg amputee, with his face painted in support of his team. He loved talking to people about politics, the Miliary, ships, trains, and prices of crops and cattle from back home in South Dakota. Mostly Mark loved cooking, baking, and he knew how foods should taste. He spent all the Holidays at his sisters home in Independence Oregon when possible. Mark leaves behind his sister Mary Jo and brother in law Frank Behnke Jr, nephew Chad Behnke of Independence Oregon, a niece Merritta and husband Eric, great nephews Ty, August, and Connor VanRavenswaay of Corvallis Oregon, and 2 great nieces Mckayla and Maleeah Behnke of Independence Oregon. Mark is preceded in death by his parents and one niece. A celebration of Life was held Friday January 16, 2026 at Salem First Baptist Church at 2 P.M. Internment and graveside service will be at the Britton Cementery at a later date.