Marvin Ellis Cooley

Marvin Ellis Cooley Bath Marvin Ellis Cooley of Bath, Michigan died Thursday, August 5, 2010 at the age of 92. He was born April 21, 1918 in Manchester, Michigan to Vera and Dr. Randall Cooley. As a boy he was active in the Boy Scouts, ultimately achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. Marvin received his Bachelor of Science degree from MSU in 1940 with a major in forestry and went on to work for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources as a wildlife biologist for 44 years until he retired in 1984. An avid and gifted gardener, he was active for many years in both the Orchid and Wildflower Societies and was instrumental in the development of fields of wildflowers along the I-96 corridor in the Portland, Michigan area. Marvin was an active member of Bath United Methodist Church for over 60 years and served many years as church organist. Marvin was preceded in death by his parents as well as his brothers Warren and Gerald Cooley and his infant daughter, Susan. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Esther; sons Bob (Mary Anne) Cooley, Jim (Barbara) Cooley, Tom (Jo ann) Cooley; daughter Dawn Cooley; as well as 10 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and 1 great-great grandchild. The funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 8, 2010 at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, 205 E. Washington, DeWitt, MI with Pastor Mark Johnson, and Chaplin Brad Rickard officiating. The family will receive friends from 2-4 and 6-8 on Saturday, August 7, at the DeWitt Chapel. Those desiring may make contributions to the Michigan Wildlife Conservancy, Bengel Wildlife Center, P.O.Box 393, Bath, MI 48808; or Hospice Advantage, 801 S. Waverly Road, Suite 304, Lansing, MI 48917 in memory of Mr. Cooley. Online condolences may be made at: www.gorslineruncimandewitt.com