Marvin Wayne Martin

Marvin W. Martin was born on June 22, 1932 to Francis and Mary (Davis) Martin in Persia, Iowa. He attended school and graduated from Persia High School with the class of 1951.

Marvin found the love of his life when he met Ruby Arlene Peterson. They were united in marriage on July 12, 1953 in Spencer, Iowa. This union was blessed with four children: Patricia, Susan, David, and Daniel. Together, the family made their home in Harlan, Iowa where they became members of First Baptist Church.

Marvin began his working career at Knudsen Produce and later held positions at G.A. Finley Gravel Pit and Jim Young’s Gas Station. He eventually joined the City of Harlan Street Department, where he dedicated 25 years of service before retiring at the age of 62. Even after retirement, Marvin remained active, working alongside his son Dave at Martin Construction. He was always willing to lend a hand with family projects and home improvement tasks.

Marvin enjoyed a variety of hobbies, including woodworking, gardening, and operating “Marv’s Sharp All Shop.” Above all, he treasured spending quality time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. One of his favorite traditions was Saturday morning coffee and rolls with family, a weekly gathering that continued even after his move to Salem Lutheran Home in Elk Horn, Iowa.

Marvin passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 3, 2025 at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan, Iowa surrounded by his loved ones. He was preceded in death by his parents, Francis and Mary Martin; wife, Ruby A Martin; siblings, Marion Martin, Minnie Marco, Melvin Martin, and Merrill Martin; sisters-in-law, Lotus Martin, Ruby N Martin, and Deb Martin; and brother-in-law, Leland “Swede” Marco.

He is survived by his children, Patricia (James) Mortensen of Kimballton, IA, Susan (Roger) Jensen of Loveland, CO, David (Lois) Martin of Harlan, IA, Daniel (Marilyn) Martin of Harlan, IA; 11 grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren; siblings, Merlyn Martin of Lincoln, NE, Mary (Donald) Andersen of Harlan, IA; sister-in-law, Katherine Martin of Harlan, IA; other relatives and many friends.