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Marvin Stern Obituary
Marv was preceded in death by his parents, Abe and Mary Stern, brothers Floyd and Jerry Stern (Sally), and dear mother-in-law, Lillian Bernard.
Marv's career spanned over 35 years in retail, culminating as President of Sears. His journey at Sears began as a copywriter and traversed through various roles, including buyer, divisional manager, and Vice President, before reaching the pinnacle of leadership.
Marv also lent his talents to Montgomery Ward, where he served as Executive Vice President. His professional endeavors took him to every state and around the globe. Marv made history as one of the first Americans to visit China in 1976, shortly after trade relations were established.
Marv was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, survived by his devoted wife of 43 years, Eileen, his loving daughter Alisa Stanfield (David), his son Neil Stern (Eliza), and adored grandchildren Jacob and Rachel Stern, Matthew and Gavin Stanfield, and Lucy Everett.
Marv was a true Renaissance man, with passions ranging from music and literature to golf and travel. In his later years, he discovered a love for walking, taking daily three-mile journeys. A die-hard Chicago sports fan, Marv's allegiance to the Cubs, Bears, Bulls, and Blackhawks remained unwavering.
Palm Springs held a special place in Marv's heart, as did his home, where he found solace and joy with those he held dear. His love for his family and friends was limitless, and though he may be gone, his memory lives on in the hearts of all touched by his gentle spirit and generous soul.
A celebration of his life will be held at Forest Lawn, Cathedral City on March 20 at 12 noon followed by a private graveside service at Desert Memorial.
Services available as livestream https://forestlawn.livecontrol.tv/8a60118a.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to City of Hope in honor of Marv's memory.
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Carol Proesel
March 12, 2025
May his memory be a blessing
Barbara stern
May 23, 2024
So sorry for your loss. Thanks for letting us know. Barb & Larry stern
Andy and Bettie Levine
April 19, 2024
We were saddened to learn of Marv's passing. We remember many great memories from when we lived in Palm Springs and were members of Canyon Country Club. We loved the Super Bowl parties that Marv and Eileen hosted at their beautiful home in Belamonte and how Marv loved serving his giant hotdogs on the grill. His casita was the place to enjoy football games, cards and cigars. I really enjoyed playing golf with him. We often think of the special birthday he had at Canyon when Eileen surprised him with a live performance of The Kingston Trio, his favorite group. Our condolences go out to Eileen and the family. May Marc rest in peace. He was truly one of the great ones. With Love, Andy and Bettie Levine
JUNE BARDWIL
March 30, 2024
Dear Eileen,
Marv lit up every room he walked into. Gracious. Smart. Funny. I share you and your family's sorrow in the loss of a great and unique man.
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Dan Mihalovich
March 27, 2024
I had the great fortune of knowing Marv Stern. Marv was my boss, my mentor and my friend. Marv was wise, unflappable, affirming and always gracious. He always had time for you in spite of his very busy schedule and always made you feel like you were important and special. He made a very significant contribution to Sears and when he left, things were never the same.
Marv dearly loved his family He was a great man and we all are better for knowing Marv Stern. Marv and Eileen and their family are in my prayers.
Rest in piece my friend
Lois Graziano
March 25, 2024
We will always see Marv standing near you, Eileen, and proudly smiling. We surround you with love.
Elle Kurpiewski
March 20, 2024
Marv was one of the most interesting, genuinely loving man I have ever met. He will be so missed. Eileen, his love and your strength will see you through this pain...
Peter janssen
March 20, 2024
Marc and I worked together at Sears from 1971 till about 1976, I have spent 50 years in business worked for a number of companies he was one of the best managers I ever had!! Smart, great with his employees who all had great respect and admiration for him!!
After I left Sears Marc and I reconnected on a dot project proposal to Sears in 1999!
One of the very best people I have had the pleasure to work with in my career!
I know he will be missed by all who knew!
My Hebert in peace!
My sincere condolences to I Eileen!
Love
Pete Janssen
Joy Silver and Atma Wiseman
March 20, 2024
Joy and I send our love and condolences. We offer you and your family comfort during this time of profound loss.
David and Dale Carden Maguire
March 19, 2024
We were so blessed to have Marv in our lives. He had great sense of humor, loving personality, always positive and enjoyed the moment. Few people have the qualities Marv had for sharing his kindness all over the world. Marv and Eileen exemplified true love for each other and their family. While we mourn a true friend we know the stars are brighter with Marv among them. RIP dear friend. David and Dale
Lee Grafton
March 19, 2024
The love shared between Eileen and Marv has been inspirational to me.
Alison
March 19, 2024
I am so very sorry - He was such a special man - He knew he was my favorite cousin and the only one allowed to call me Ali - I will miss him
Carol Solomon Proesel
March 19, 2024
My Sincere Condolences to Eileen and the Stern Family. I never met Marv but he sounds like he was an outstanding person. May his Soul RIP
Vanessa Lee-Poole
March 19, 2024
I had the pleasure of speaking with Marv on a number of occasions as he was one of the dearest friends of Larry and Lillian. On one occasion, he talked with joy about an upcoming trip to Paris with his family . I recommend one of my favorite museums, and he sought out Eileen to ensure it was noted down. He wanted to make sure everyone would have a great time, and I was touched my how much he valued his family and sharing experiences with them. On another occasion, I asked how his children were doing. He said Neil was `falling in love this very moment.´ Again I was moved by how close he was to his family and how he felt what they felt. I send my deepest condolences to Eileen and all Marv´s family.
Mike Roche
March 18, 2024
In early 1993, word spread at Hoffman that Marv had just been elected the President of the newly formed Sears Home Group. As Marv got off the elevator, people in the crowded hall broke out in wild cheers and applause. He blushed, nodded and waved his thanks. This man was a leader!
Jim & Barbara Jacobs
March 18, 2024
To Stern Family.
We are so sorry for the loss of Marv, and we are
grateful he was part of our lives. Our memories
go back to Bonnie and Neil´s wedding as well as
seeing Marv on his visits to Chicago for events
related to Jake and Rachel. We always enjoyed
those visits talking with him. Thanks to Facebook
we could follow his life over the years. Best of all
we would always ask about him when we saw
Rachel and Jake or talked with Neil. Your family
is in our prayers, and he will be greatly missed.
Love Jim & Barbara Jacobs and Family
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