Mark D. Brakla was born on January 5, 1953 in Benton Harbor to Donald Brakla and Leona (Glaske) Brakla.

He went to be with his Lord on November 9, 2021 in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

In his early years, Mark attended Berrien Springs schools, but at age 14 he left home and school and went on his own. The next 20 years were marked by drug and alcohol addiction, health problems and part-time jobs. Somewhere along the way, get his GED and find a job with Spectrum Health in Grand Rapids.

It was around this time – in his thirties – that Mark found peace in the Lord: forgiveness, restoration, and a chance to start over. After much counseling and ending his addictions, he was able to help many who were traveling the same downhill path that he had taken for so many years – to find salvation, peace with God, and a purpose for their life. All by the grace of God!

Mark retired after 32 years with Spectrum Health, moving from maintenance to IT specialist. After his retirement, he devoted much of his time to his church, to the media, to music or wherever he was needed.

Mark is survived by his beloved wife, Pat, to whom he has been married for 28 years, as well as their combined families, their sons: Dan Brakla and Shawn (Ashley) Patterson; daughters: Nikki Brakla, Cassie Johnson and Mandy (Tom) Klocko; nine grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; his mother, Lee Brakla, and his sister, Shari Payne, both of Saint-Joseph.

He was predeceased by his father, Donald Brakla; and her daughter, Kathy Patterson.

A service of life celebration was held on November 15 at the New Community Church in Grand Rapids.

Briefs can be made at: Community Recovery International, New Community Church WM, 2340 Dean Lake Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505.