Reading, PA – Mark Schlott, born January 26, 1967, in Reading, passed away in June 2025, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in the candy manufacturing industry and a profound impact on the Berks County community.
With a career spanning more than 35 years at R. M. Palmer Co., Mark rose from humble beginnings to become Executive Vice-President of Operations and Chief Operating Officer, earning respect as a visionary leader and fierce advocate for growth and community engagement (candyhalloffame.org).
Humble Roots, Strong Values
Mark grew up in a modest household in Reading, the son of Elmer and Marie Schlott. His parents instilled the values of hard work, self-reliance, and the simple joys of family—home-cooked meals, warmth, and togetherness—values that would shape his every endeavor. He and his siblings, Sue and Dennis, learned early that success was earned, not given.
Education and Early Ambitions
Graduating from Reading Senior High School in 1984, Mark pursued his interest in engineering at Penn State University’s Berks campus. Although he entered college with aspirations of a career in engineering, destiny led him down a path that would define his professional life.
A Rising Star at R. M. Palmer Co.
In 1986, Mark began as a maintenance mechanic at R. M. Palmer Co. Within a decade, he became a production supervisor. His pivotal moment came in 1996 when Richard Palmer, Jr.—a 1991 Candy Hall of Fame inductee—entrusted him to commission a challenging moulding line. Mark and his team doubled the line’s output in three months and launched a new chocolate product. His ingenuity and leadership were undeniable .
This breakthrough project led to rapid advancement: Director of Continuous Improvement (1998), Director of Production Services (2001), Plant Manager at Wyomissing (2002), Assistant VP and then Vice-President of Operations (2003), culminating in his role as EVP of Operations and COO . In 2023, he took on the additional role of CEO, steering the company to continued success.
Champion of Industry and Advocacy
Mark was deeply involved with the National Confectioners Association (NCA), serving on the Board of Directors from 2008–2011 and again in 2019. He contributed to the Public Policy Committee, the Ruby Award committee, and CandyPAC.
A regular at the annual Washington Forum, he earned NCA’s “Advocate of the Year” award in 2019 and received a nomination for the prestigious Kettle Award in 2020.
Community Engagement in Reading
Locally, Mark was a pillar of Reading’s community. He served on the Berks County Workforce Development Board, chairing the Worker and Training Committee, and contributed nearly two decades to the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance Board.
He was also a steadfast participant in the United Way’s Leadership Program for 20 years—always striving to improve opportunities for workers and families across Berks County .
A Reflection on His Philosophy
Mark lived by his chosen creed:
“Success is the sum of small efforts repeated day in and day out.”
He believed that showing up, facing challenges head-on, and learning from outcomes made success inevitable.
Personal Life
Mark married his wife, Karen, on January 27, 1987. Their partnership was a source of strength and joy, and together they raised four children—Bret, Laura, Anthony, and Ryan. Mark was also a devoted grandfather to three grandchildren, with family always at the center of his life.
An Enduring Legacy
Mark viewed his professional and community contributions as part of something larger—emblematic of what a small company could offer to an entire industry and the broader region. His belief in people, process improvement, and community engagement enriched many lives.
Mark Schlott will be remembered as an innovator, leader, mentor, and compassionate community partner. His story—from mechanic to industry leader—stands as a testament to dedication, vision, and generosity. He is survived by his wife Karen, their children and grandchildren, siblings Sue and Dennis, and countless colleagues and friends.
A celebration of Mark’s life will be announced by the family. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the United Way of Berks County or NCA’s scholarship fund.
Rest in peace, Mark Schlott. Your small efforts have created large impacts—and your legacy endures.
