Marvin was born and reared in Shafter, California. He attended Richland Schools and graduated from Shafter High School with the class of 1948. He began his career in farming with his father, Emil, and brother, LeRoy, after attending Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Marvin had many accomplishments involving agriculture and the youth of Kern County, receiving distinguished awards following years of service to the Kern County Fair Junior Livestock Auction and the agricultural youth of Shafter and Kern County. He was a charter member of the Richland Coop Gin of Shafter. Since 1964, he was a valued member of the Shafter Kiwanis Club, serving as President. His name was inscribed on the Kiwanis International Tablet of Honor for many years of dedicated leadership and unselfish devotion helping children help themselves. He was known as 'Mr. Sweet' by the local club, having sold thousands of pounds of candy and organizing their annual candy sales. Marvin was recognized by Shafter's Chamber of Commerce with The Agricultural Man of the Year Award in recognition of his contributions to the local agriculture community. A central part of Marvin's life was his generous service to his Lord through membership in the Ebenezer Reformed Church. He served as deacon for 40 years and was treasurer for 20 years. Marvin married Dolly Blanton in November of 1969. They were blessed with 37 years together, living and loving life. They had no children of their own, but shared in the lives of many children. Marvin is survived by his loving wife, Dolly; brother, LeRoy and Doris Kirschenmann of Shafter; brother, Gorden Kirschenmann of Ririe, Idaho; sister, Lavelle and Clarence Bender of Shafter; sister, Valora and Tony Gagliano of Fountain Valley, California; brothers-in-law and wives, Kenneth and Judy Blanton, Keith and Cathy Blanton, Kelly and Yvonne Blanton, Joe and Mary Blanton, Johnny and Pat Blanton, Melvin and Jan Blanton, Martin and Linda Blanton, and Dwight and Jenifer Blanton; and sister-in-law and husband, Penny and Ross Shafer. He enjoyed a monthly lunch meeting with the Kirschenmann cousins. Marvin's nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews are too numerous to name but all were precious to him. He enjoyed a special relationship with his nephews Kenny and Mark with whom he farmed, Paul and John, and with Ben and Laura - he was their Marmoo. Dolly would like to thank the many friends, family, and health providers that cared for Marvin for the last two years, especially, Virginia, Lupe, and Richard. The many prayers, cards and words of encouragement gave strength and comfort to both of them. Funeral services was conducted by Peters Funeral Home on Tuesday, December 12, 2006 at 10:00 a.m. at The Ebenezer Reformed Church of Shafter, 335 James Street, Shafter, California. On-line Guestbook and Obituary may be viewed at: www.clarmar.com. Remembrances may be made to The Ebenezer Reformed Church Memorial Fund or The Kiwanis Club of Shafter Scholarship Fund, established in Marvin's name. Marvin will be remembered as a loyal and dedicated man – to his community, his church, and his family.