Obituary published on Legacy.com by Raymond E Bond Funeral Home on Dec. 7, 2025.
Marvin Anthony Gardner Jr., 90, of Catskill, NY, passed away peacefully on December 2, 2025, at St. Peter's Hospital.
Born on October 14, 1935, in
Valatie, NY, to Marvin A. Gardner Sr. and Emma Katherine (Repp) Gardner, Marvin grew up with a strong sense of community and a dedication to hard work. He graduated from Martin H. Glynn High School in 1953 and began his working life delivering milk for Silver Lake Dairy-a job he often fondly recalled. He later became the Produce Manager for Grand Union supermarkets, where he made lifelong friendships and was known for his tireless work ethic and easy smile.
Marvin lived life with joy, curiosity, and a deep appreciation for the simple pleasures. He loved taking his boat out for peaceful cruises on the water, traveling with his wife and family, collecting coins, and talking about cars with an enthusiasm that never faded. He gave generously of his time to his community, serving proudly for 72 years in the Valatie Fire Department, where he also served as Chief for ten years. He was a member of the Valatie Rescue Squad, served as Assistant Mayor of Valatie, and enjoyed his time with friends at the Catskill Yacht Club. In every role he took on, Marvin brought dedication, kindness, and a steady, dependable presence.
Above all, Marvin was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Suzanne Gardner of Catskill, NY; his children Diane Manchuck, Guy (Pam) Gardner III, Lisa (Bill) George, Tina (Curtis) Murray, Suzanne (Foster) Ribsamen, and Kristiane (Scott) Newcombe; his grandchildren Robbie Manchuck, Kimberly Gardner, Jennifer Gardner, Michael (Madison) Gardner Jr, Aaron George, Nathan George, and Foster Ribsamen; and his great-grandchildren Linden and Easton. He is also survived by his brother James (Mary) Gardner, and his sisters Shirley Powell and Denise Gaylord as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Marvin is predeceased by his parents; his son, Michael Gardner Sr; his grandson, Christopher Gardner; his brother, Francis Gardner; and his brothers-in-law, Harold Powell and John Gaylord. Though he will be dearly missed, his family takes comfort in the many memories he leaves behind-memories filled with laughter, guidance, and the unwavering love he gave so freely.
Memorial donations may be made to Community Hospice, 47 Liberty Street, Catskill, NY 12414 and to the Valatie Fire Department, 3619 Mechanic Street,
Valatie, NY 12184. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate nurses and staff at Community Hospice and St. Peter's Medical Center for their care and kindness.
A Funeral Service will be held at Raymond E. Bond Funeral Home, 1015 Kinderhook Street,
Valatie, NY, on December 14, 2025, at 5 p.m., with Chaplain Stanley Webster officiating. Visitation will take place prior to the service, from 3–5 p.m., at the funeral home. A private burial will be held at a later date. Raymond E. Bond Funeral Home is entrusted with the arrangements.