Age 64, passed away at Bronson Hospital in Kalamazoo, MI, on March 27, 2024. He was born in Kalamazoo on October 14, 1959, the son of Ronald and Elsie (Prater) Slater. Mark graduated from Kalamazoo Central High School in 1978. He would remain a lifetime resident of the Kalamazoo area. Mark had many gifts, passions and hobbies. He was a voracious reader and liked to collect Bibles. He had a strong faith in the Lord and would read the Gospel often. He enjoyed baking and worked as a baker for many years. He loved football, was a loyal fan of the Detroit Lions and was an avid disc golfer. He had a wonderful sense of humor, was able to laugh at difficult situations and always found a way to brighten the day for those around him. Though he faced many struggles, he will be missed by those who loved him. He is survived by two children, Kacee and Derrick Slater; his mother, Elsie Kelley; two brothers, Anthony (Judith) Sanderson, Jerry Slater; many nieces, nephews and friends. He was preceded in passing by his father.