Marvin William Lynd

Marvin William Lynd, a man of enduring cheer and quiet strength, passed away peacefully on June 6, 2025, in WaKeeney, Kansas, at the age of 101.
Born in Trego County on December 15, 1923, to William E. and Hilda (Johnson) Lynd, Marvin was the third of seven children. He was raised on a farm north of Ellis, where his lifelong love for the land was cultivated. His early education took place in a one-room country schoolhouse where, with a characteristic twinkle in his eye, he'd recall being the smartest in his class-and also the only one. Many mornings began with a spirited pony race to school with his siblings, a secret kept from their mother's watchful eye.
After graduating from Trego County High School, Marvin married the love of his life, Reva Poague, on September 4, 1946. For ten years, they built a life on a farm south of WaKeeney, before a water shortage prompted their move into town. Their loving partnership spanned an incredible 73 years-a testament to their deep devotion-until Reva's passing in 2019.
A true son of the Kansas soil, Marvin loved farming and raising cattle. He faced life's many adversities, from Dust Bowl–era struggles to long harvest days, with a cheerful heart and an unwavering positive attitude. Covered in wheat chaff and sweat, he would return home with a smile. To support his family during leaner times, Marvin's strong work ethic led him to sell life insurance, work in construction with Bill Beer, and serve as a foreman during the construction of the Cedar Bluff Dam.
Marvin and Reva enjoyed a rich social life, from spirited card games with rural neighbors to lively bridge clubs in WaKeeney. After retiring, they savored sixteen winters in Mesa, Arizona, where Marvin could be found playing water volleyball, golfing, and, most of all, dancing with Reva.
A man of genuine humility and interest in others, Marvin always greeted you with a warm, "How was your day?" He was a devoted husband and father, quick to show his affection not just to his family but to the entire community. To know Marvin was to have a kind and benevolent friend.
He is lovingly remembered by his two children: Rex (Sue) Lynd of Ft. Collins, Colorado; and Nancee (Jerry) Donker of WaKeeney, Kansas; six grandchildren: Sara Lynd, Melissa Phifer, Matthew Donker, Sandra Thomas, Mike Loeske, and Shawn Loeske; and nine great-grandchildren: Makela Phifer, Ronin Thomas, Addie Loeske, Zoey Donker, Nora Donker, Kyle Phifer, Liam Loeske, Lila Loeske, and Dylan Lynd.
A private graveside service for the immediate family will be held on June 12 in WaKeeney. A community memorial service to celebrate Marvin's life will be announced at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Generations Church, WaKeeney, Kansas. Contributions may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 North 12th St., WaKeeney, KS 67672.
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