Obituary of Mark Richard Draves

Mark Richard Draves, born February 11, 1964 in Midland, Michigan passed away on Sunday May 7, 2023 surrounded by family and friends. He was born to Connie (Hardy) Arndt and Jim Draves and raised by Laura and Willard Sr. Hardy. He went into the Army after high school.

He went on to coach his daughter’s softball and equestrian teams. He married Melanie at the Midland County Court House on March 17, 2017 in the presence of Larry and Brianna. They lived in Freeland, Michigan where they carried out their love of horses through teaching. Mark was a farrier for Midland and surrounding areas for 15 years.

He had a passion for teaching kids how to ride and love horses. He also enjoyed playing and coaching softball for many years. Mark and Melanie moved out to Arizona for a year for retirement until they decided to move back to Midland to be with family and friends.

He is survived by his daughters, Brianna (Logan) Draves of Orlando, FL and Shayna Draves of Midland, MI; wife, Melanie (Blues) Draves; beloved dog, Pixie; brother, Larry Huckins of Midland, MI; sisters, Michele (Scott) Buckingham of Midland, MI, Jamie (Pat) Howe of Higgins Lake, MI, and Lori (Marty) Reynaert of Sanford, MI; godson, Lane (Lauren) Hulme; many more aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, great-nieces, and nephews; as well as friends that turned into family.

He made many friends in the horse world and will be missed by so many. He always knew somebody no matter where he went. He made a big impact on so many people’s lives and will never be forgotten.
He will be cremated and his ashes will be spread with immediate family with some left to his wife and daughters. He was preceded in death by his mother, Connie; grandparents, Laura and Willard Sr. and Dolly and Albert Arndt; brothers, Tim Horden and Dave Drummond.

There will be a Celebration of Life at the Larkin Township Hall, from 12-4 pm on Saturday, May 27, 2023 followed by a bonfire at his house, at 3525 E. Shearer Rd, Midland MI, at 7pm for anyone who would like to attend.  To sign online guestbook, visit www.cremationsocietymidmi.com  Arrangements made with Cremation Society of Mid Michigan.