Marvin Earl Wilts, 74, of Herman, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 1st, 2011 surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with brain cancer. Funeral services for Marvin will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, February 5th, 2011 at the United Methodist Church in Herman with Pastor Mickey Olson officiating. Visitation will be held Friday from 4 to 6 pm with a prayer service at 6 p.m. at the United Methodist Church in Herman and for one hour prior to services at the church on Saturday. Interment will be at the Lakeside Cemetery, Herman, Minnesota.
Marvin was born on February 9, 1936, in rural Eldorado Township the fourth and youngest child of Fredrick (Earl) and Alma (Brunkow) Wilts. He grew up on the family farm where he learned the lessons of hard work, integrity and perseverance, which would serve him the rest of his life. He was baptized and confirmed at The United Methodist Church in Herman. Marvin attended District 61 Country School and later graduated from Herman High School in 1953 after which he farmed with his dad, brother LuVern and brother-in-law George Libbon.
On March 30, 1957, Marvin was united in marriage to Beverly Diehl at the United Methodist Church in Herman. The couple lived on the family farm in Eldorado Township. To this union were born five children: Alan, Lynnae, Keith, Kurt and Craig. Their farm was always full of activity with the dogs, cats, hogs, cattle, chickens, ducks, rabbits, horses and red deer along with the busy life on the farm. Marvin's love of farming kept him at it his entire life, including last fall's harvest.
Marvin was diagnosed with brain cancer in July of 2009. Although his disease drastically changed his life, he never complained about his limited ability to do the things he enjoyed most. His final earthly home was at the Courage Cottage in Morris. There he was met by many wonderful people who gave special care to him and his family.
Marvin will be remembered for his big heart, great smile and infectious laugh. His integrity and honesty set an example for all of us. He was a kind and thoughtful person who enjoyed helping others, expecting nothing in return. His family and friends could count on him always come rain or shine.
In addition to serving on numerous boards and committees during his lifetime, Marvin received the I.O.O.F. Hall of Fame award from the Oddfellow Lodge for his many contributions to the community. He loved being outdoors and enjoyed his many fishing and hunting trips with his sons, grandsons and friends. He could also be seen at his grandsons' football, basketball and baseball games – never missing one. He was an avid Minnesota Twins and Vikings fan. He enjoyed going to the stadium and watching games on T.V. with his children and grandchildren. Marvin also enjoyed his daily morning and afternoon visits with his buddies over coffee at Deny's.
Marvin was a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather who will be deeply missed by all whose lives he touched. He is survived by his wife, Beverly; children Alan (Barbara), Lynnae (Michael) LeClair, Keith (Susan), Kurt and Craig (Bonnie); grandsons Derek (Jolene) LeClair, Drew (Leah) LeClair, Tyler Wilts, Jase Wilts, Aiden Wilts, Ethan Wilts, and Adam Sprengeler; granddaughters Caitlin Wilts and Andrea (Chris) Strautz; great-grandson Brennan Strautz, and great-granddaughter Mattea LeClair. Marvin is also survived by one brother, LuVern (Mildred) and one sister, Shirley (George) Libbon, his mother-in-law Myrta Diehl and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents Earl and Alma, one brother Winfred, and his father-in-law Russell Diehl.
Pallbearers for the service are Marvin's sons; Alan, Keith, Kurt and Craig, his grandsons; Derek and Drew. Honorary pallbearer is his daughter, Lynnae. Poppa's favorites: Jase, Caitlin, Tyler, Aiden, Ethan, Mattea, Andrea, Adam and Brennan.
"God bless the loving memory of Marvin Earl Wilts. He will be forever loved and forever remembered."
Arrangements are with the Pedersen Funeral Home in Morris.
View Marvin Wilts's Video Tribute