Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
BORN
1980
DIED
2021
Mark Brokaw Obituary
Beloved son of Lynn Lichtenberg and Larry Harris of Everett and of Bob Brokaw and Lisa Lundt of Las Vegas. Brother to Megan Brokaw Richotte (Rich Richotte) and Aphrah Lundt Brokaw. Uncle to Elise and Nina Richotte, and precious to grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins.
Mark grew up in Everett, graduating from Everett High School in 1998. His childhood was filled with friends and family and more soccer and football teams than one could count. He attended Western Washington University, walking onto the football team in his freshman year as a kicker.
He enlisted in the Marine Corps, and served for 17 years including six combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan and deployments to the DMZs of Korea, Somalia, and East Africa, training in Thailand, Australia and more. Mark built strong friendships in the Corps and cared deeply for his fellow Marines. A highly respected and effective leader, he was a decorated Marine receiving multiple Medals for Achievement and Valor for combat actions under fire in Afghanistan and Iraq. He earned the Marine Corps Martial Arts Black Belt 1st Degree. Mark's final assignment was as a Marine Corps Advanced Combat Instructor at Camp Pendleton, CA. After his honorable discharge, Mark studied to be a land surveyor at Bellingham Technical College until the pandemic upended his plans and his studies.
Throughout his life, Mark spent time with family and friends in the beautiful outdoors, boating the waters of Washington and BC and kayaking and hiking in the San Juans, Olympics and Cascades. His love of the outdoors followed him wherever he was, to the beaches of California, to the deserts of the Southwest, and in 2020 to Alaska and commercial fishing in Bristol Bay. Particularly through the outdoors Mark shared with family and friends his profound appreciation of the world around him.
We remember Mark's huge spirit, quick wit, broad smile, intense curiosity, sharp brain, well-spring of generosity, and love of friends and family. Mark maintained friendships that started on the soccer fields and in the backyards of North Everett, and with Marines from around the country and the world. Mark was wholly present with those around him and cared deeply for what he believed and for those he loved. He will be sorely missed.
March 20, 1980 - May 19, 2021To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Mark Brokaw
John A Erickson
December 1, 2021
So many of my best memories from growing up in North Everett revolve around the great times and adventures I had with Mark and his family. He was my first real best friend. Through endless days of pickup soccer, baseball and football, at Duffy's Field, Legion Park and Whittier Elementary School I can still picture the intensity of his competative spirit.
One time we were out trick or treating with our friends and were surprised by a group of older boys who tried to take our candy. Mark had his fists flying and gave those bigger kids way more than they bargained for! After they ran off we saw that Colin had most of his candy stolen and Mark was the first to reach into his pillowcase to pull out handfuls to replace what had been taken. Even back then before the Marines, he was the most fearless and kindest person I knew.
I still have the photos from our youth soccer team, the Irish Avengers where Coach Virginia Grossman usually played him as a midfielder because he was the most athletic and well rounded player on a team that featured at least two future D1 athletes. I vividly remember spending the night at both his houses laughing and staying up way too late with stories and the special kind of fun that is only possible when you are young and so carefree. I really counted him as the dearest and truest of friends.
I'll hold these memories of my childhood with Mark forever in my heart. I can still feel that our bond was a centering touchstone for both of us.
Unfortunately, I lost touch with Mark after moving away after 6th grade and am proud to hear of what he accomplished as an adult. He was always so tough, but so kind and loyal. My most sincere condolences to Lynn, Larry, Bob, Lisa, Megan, Aphra, and all who knew him and were touched by his spirit.
With deepest sympathy and sadness,
John Erickson
Vashon Island
David Debeau
August 22, 2021
Mark was a legend in our company. I´m pleased to see that he went on to train new Marines as a combat instructor at SOI. The wisdom he imparted has likely saved many lives including mine. I hope he knows he was a hero to many Marines and that they wouldn´t be where they are today without him.
NIckoli Johnson
July 2, 2021
Mark was an courageous Marine that took great risks to ensure his fellow Marines were always supported. I trusted him implicitly during our time together in AFG and was deeply saddened by his passing. My sincere condolences. Semper Fi Brother...Rest in peace.
Marshall Brown
July 1, 2021
I served under Mark in Afghanistan with 3/5. He was a good man and a legendary Marine. You are missed brother.
Randall Rice
June 30, 2021
With great sadness, I recently heard of Mark´s passing. I want to extend my deepest and heartfelt condolences to Lynn and Larry and to Megan, and Bob and Lisa - and to all of the family. Best wishes to you all.
Gaye Larson
June 19, 2021
Lynn and family, I am so very sorry for the loss of your dear Mark. My prayers for peace.
Deryn Mack
June 13, 2021
Marks hugs we're the biggest and greatest, his smile the biggest and was always willing to lend a hand. He was one of my closets friends since middle school and will be dearly missed by the world he left behind. Thank you brother for sharing time with me and the sacrifices you made for us all!
Prayers and big hugs for the family.
Brian & Gretchen Erga
June 13, 2021
Mark was a wonderful human and person, dedicating many years of his life to his country and all of us. Our thoughts and prayers are with you
Showing 1 - 12 of 12 results
Make a Donation
in Mark Brokaw's name
Memorial Events
for Mark Brokaw
How to support Mark's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Mark Brokaw's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
