Marv was always a good humoured guy. He was a larger than life character who was the life of the party (or any gathering). He was a first cousin to my late wife (Margaret Mandes-Smith). Marvin is truly missed by all who knew him. Rest in peace Marv.
I met Marvin when we both worked at SAIT. For both of us, it was our first day and we were ensuring some horrible all-day onboarding class. We were sitting next to each other and somehow started passing sarcastic notes to one another. That was the beginning of our friendship. We always spoke at least once a week and never lost touch - until now. I want to express my deepest condolences although I know that Marvin's loss is something you can't be consoled about. I know it very well. I am completely gutted and will feel his absence deeply. I did receive the details of the celebration of life in Edmonton but I don't do well at these types of things and I don't know how anyone really gets through it, never mind a parent. I give thanks for bringing such a wonderful human being - kind, compassionate, intelligent, funny, awake, aware and boundlessly determined man. He will be missed, always. As for me, I'm not done with the tears, they just keep pouring out of my face. I wish you well and I'm sending love. Marvin is now pain free and back with his beloved mom. All best wishes. -
Marvin's devoted friend, Anna.
I was truly shocked and saddened to hear of Marvin’s passing. <br>We worked together at SAIT for a time. His office was across from mine. <br>We discovered we were both air-force BRATS. <br>I always enjoyed our conversations, and hearing his take on the world around us. <br>We could make each other laugh regularly.
He will definitely be missed.
I was stunned and heartbroken to learn of Marvin’s passing. We became friends when we both taught in Lloydminster and we reconnected again in Doha. During the years in Doha we became quite close, sharing deep conversations about everything from teaching and life to cars and sand dunes. Marvin was widely known over here and widely respected. My heart goes out to Marvin’s other friends and to his remaining family members. I know you’re all grieving terribly.
My best memory was the day we took my car to drive, learn to drive, in the desert with a group of other vehicles and how we went over a steep dune, much to fast and tore the front off my Nissan Pathfinder... We have a video that hilarious and Marvin still makes me laugh as we hear his reaction and see the inside of the car as it hits the bottom before sliding out onto the sand. Marvin enjoyed this so much... Our plan was for him to drive the next chance we had, but he had to return to Canada before we could do it again. One of the photos I posted shows him smiling and giving me a signal.... Marvin loved cars and if he could have, I'm sure he would have gone to the desert regularly.
We met Marvin in Doha Qatar in 2017 when he started work with CNA-Q. Marvin was a people person, with a huge smile, a great laugh and the warmest and most welcoming personality. Everyone loved being around Marvin and he was a great friend to all of us. Marvin made everyone feel as if they were the most important person in the room. We will miss him so much... Saddened and shocked today to learn of his passing. Marvin shared so much of his heart, his soul and his humor with those around him and for others less fortunate his generosity knew no limits. From the bar tender at KR's to the security guards on campus, or simply the Tallabat delivery guy... Marvin's charitable ways were offered without strings attached to those people from countries who worked so hard to earn so little, to send money to their families.... Who came to know Marvin as a caring and kind man.... We wanted to share a few photos of the big guy with the big smile the big heart... The friend we found in the desert and who to this day are proud to say meant so much to reach out us.... We will miss our zoom calls, heath checkups for everyone and his open highway video and listening to music in the car or truck... And stories of his beloved blue bombers... Marvin touched our lives in so many ways... Always remembered of course, but you will be missed so dearly... Love you Marv ❤️ rest in peace. ... Nick, Byrad, Nelson and the many folks whose lives you so graciously touched during your brief stay in Qatar.
I met Marv in Doha. . .he often stopped by office to have a chat on his way to and from classes. . .always enjoyed those days. I also got to hang with Marv and the boys for a few drinks now and then and a meal here and there as well. Marv was a kind, gentle man , ready to give a helping hand or advice if needed. Gone too soon. RIP Marv
Condolence to the family.
My condolences to the family and his friends … there is was no one like marv he is special, he touched lives wherever he went and I told him he deserves the very best ….sorry am in shock… rest well marv
I met marv in Qatar this is so unreal to me …. We were each other chief cheerleaders …. We dated for a while then parted then agreed to be friends since 2020 again … marv is a gem my forever gem… I love you marv and thank you for your kindness and giving me space in your live …. I cherished that and am glad we always have each others “flowers” all through what needed to be said was said….rest well marv till we meet again
We met Marv a long time ago at a cruise night at the old and abandoned A&W in Beverly. Hot rodders met there despite it being closed down. We immediately became friends. Marv loved cars, especially Mercurys. Through the years we shared many wonderful stories, and much laughter. Marv was a great friend to everyone and his incredible personality endeared him to all. His passing will leave a void that cannot be filled. The sadness is at times overwhelming for us but we take solice in knowing it was a true blessing having Marv in our lives. God Bless his family and Marv as he passes into eternity. With love and sympathy, Bill & Kathy Storr - Edmonton
