Marvin Staska

Marvin Staska, age 84, of Mahnomen, MN, died Monday, October 7, 2024, at the Mahnomen Health Center Nursing Home.
Marvin Paul Staska, the youngest child of Roy and Emma (Paul) Staska was born in Detroit Lakes, MN, on March 1, 1940. He grew up in the Mahnomen area where he attended school. Following his high school graduation, Marv furthered his education for architecture. His aspirations of becoming an architect were cut short when his father fell ill, and he was asked to return home to help on the family farm. Marv farmed with his father and his brother, Clarence, for a time before solely operating on his own.
While out at the Mahnomen American Legion Club, Marvin crossed paths with an old high school friend, Mary Daly, and soon realized they were meant to be together. Marvin married the love of his life, Mary, on March 12, 1977, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Moorhead, MN, and became the father figure to Mary's five girls. Together they made their home in Mahnomen and continued farming until Marv retired in 2002. Mary passed away in 2017, and Marvin continued living on the farm until he moved to the assisted living, followed by the nursing home, where he has resided since last October.
During their retirement, Marv and Mary enjoyed traveling. They spent summers fishing at the Northwest Angle and winters in Texas. He was a fantastic fisherman and he and Mary were so competitive they often had to have fish counters to keep an "honest" count of the season's catch. They were able to share their love for the sport with their grandkids and Marv knew the best "Honey Holes" to pique their interest! Marv also enjoyed hunting and was an avid poker player, especially Texas Hold 'em. He was known to drive for miles to play poker, with only one stipulation, that upon returning home he was expected to share half his winnings with his wife! Marvin was a very talented woodworker and when he wasn't busy with all the for mentioned pastimes he could be found working on numerous projects. He made beautiful roll top desks, shelving units, and banks, to name a few, in addition to something special for all the grandkids to treasure.
Marvin is survived by four daughters: Paula (Scott) Nelson of New Prague, MN; Michelle (Mark) Trnka of Mahnomen, MN, Melanie (Kent) Bauman of Willmar, MN, and Jennifer (Steve) Kahlbaugh of Mesa, AZ; 10 grandchildren: Sarah (Aimee) Ott-Starkey, Tyler (Brandi) Starkey, Shawn Nelson, Kevin Nelson, Gregory (Kayleigh) Trnka, Stephanie (Travis) Lehner, Braden (Anna) Peterson-Bauman, Tanner Bauman, Nathaniel Kahlbaugh and Blake Kahlbaugh; and six great-grandchildren: Colton Nelson, Jaxson Nelson, Parker Lehner, Charlotte Lehner, Rhiannon Trnka and Jack Starkey; sister-in-law, Priscilla Staska of St. Coud, MN; and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Mary; and daughter, Pamela.
Blessed be the memory of Marvin Staska.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at St. Michael's Catholic Church, Mahnomen, MN. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service at the church.