Mark Valentine Esterhai

Mark Valentine Esterhai, age 64, of Eaton Rapids, MI passed away on Thursday, January 26, 2023, after a courageous battle with ALS. Mark was born on February 14, 1958, in Pawtucket, Rhode Island the son of Louis and Elizabeth (Paterson) Esterhai. He moved to Eaton Rapids in the early 1960’s where he was raised at the VFW National Home and went to school with the class of 1975 and received his diploma in 1981. Mark worked at Nava Stone Company in Cement City as a brick manufacturer and was the first licensed riverboat captain in the state of Michigan. His passion was captaining riverboats and he drove for many years as the captain of the Michigan Princess out of Lansing. He was an avid fan of NASCAR, college football, music, golfing and taking long drives with no particular destination in mind. Mark loved hosting reunions and parties at his home especially for his family and extended VFW family.
Mark is survived by his wife, Susan (Brandt) Esterhai; daughter, Amber (Jason Church) Esterhai; “adopted” daughter, Gabby Rugg; brothers, Rob (Rae) Esterhai, Stephen Esterhai; sisters, Betty (Bill) Steele, Andrea Larson and several nieces, nephews, beloved friends and extended VFW family.
A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 31, 2023 at Skinner Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids chapel with visitation starting at 11:00 a.m.. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family in care of Susan Esterhai to help cover final expenses. To share memories or leave online condolences please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.