La Digue bids farewell to Marston Saint Ange: A beloved hotelier

The island of La Digue is mourning the loss of Marston Saint Ange, a remarkable personality and beloved local figure, who passed away early this morning the 16^th of April 2026 at the La Digue Hospital following compounding health issues. A small hotel owner with a unique approach to life and business leaves behind a legacy defined by his easy-going nature, deep family values, sharp wit, and genuine love for his community.

Marston who was born on the 26^th of January 1945, was the kind of person who made everyone feel like an old friend. He had a warm smile and an easy laugh, always ready to chat or share a story. People were naturally drawn to his genuine happiness and way of bringing everyone together, whether you were a visitor or a neighbour. Many who came as guests to his hotel returned year after year, soon feeling more like family than tourists. There’s even an old postcard a guest created that says it all: “If you don’t know this man, you don’t know the Seychelles.”

… at the heart of hospitality space in La Digue

For decades, Marston was at the very heart of hospitality on La Digue. He ran his beloved small hotel and restaurant, ‘Chez Marston,’ side by side with the ‘Orchid’ hotel, which belonged to his wife, Laura, right next door. His restaurant drew regular excursion groups from across the islands, eager to experience his famous traditional Creole buffet.

 

… devoted to family

Family was always at the heart of Marston’s life. He stood fiercely loyal to his loved ones, always ready to stand side by side with them when they needed him. His deep love for his five children—Tony, Karen, Albin, Sophie, and Lucie—was woven directly into his life’s work.

He proudly named each of his five hotel rooms after them. Just recently, in August 2025, Marston celebrated his 80th birthday surrounded by Laura, his children, and many grandchildren, for a day filled with the kind of togetherness that meant everything to him.

 

… traversing the world

Marston’s journey took him far from home before bringing him back to where he truly belonged. After completing his studies at Seychelles College, he spent 15 years in Melbourne, Australia, with his mother. But in 1978, he returned to Seychelles, drawn by his deep connection to home and the island of La Digue, where he would leave an indelible mark.

 

… dedicated to Seychelles’ future

Marston cared deeply about the future of Seychelles and wasn’t afraid to speak up when he believed it mattered. In 1998, he ran as an Independent Candidate for the La Digue (Inner Islands) elections. Later, in 2011, he announced his candidacy for the Presidency. While he ultimately did not file the necessary documentation on Nomination Day, he never shied away from political participation and always wore his colours of choice with pride during election seasons.

 

… a short romance with the Silver Screen

In addition to his many roles, Marston also had a brush with the silver screen. In 1985, he appeared in the film Robinson Crusoe, which was shot at Petite Anse and Anse Kerlan. It was a treasured memory he loved to share with friends and family, adding yet another layer to his colourful life story.

… a loving heart

Marston Saint Ange will be remembered as a man who lived joyfully, loved deeply, and brought people together. His true legacy lies in the love he poured into his family, the friendships he nurtured, and the countless happy memories he helped create.

As La Digue bids farewell to one of its most beloved sons, Marston’s spirit will live on in the family he adored, the guests he welcomed, and the vibrant island community he called home.