Marvin R. Timmerman

1947 - 2026

Marvin R. Timmerman

Mt. Union

Marvin Robert Timmerman, 78, of Mt. Union, died Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City.

Marvin was born August 1, 1947 in Kirksville, MO. (Although Marvin's parents lived on a farm near Mt. Union, Marvin boldly chose to enter the world while the family was on vacation in Missouri). He was the son of Guey Clarence and Helen Louise (Watson) Timmerman. Marvin graduated from Winfield-Mt. Union High School as a member of the Class of 1965. On December 26, 1974 at the Open Bible Church in Winfield, Marvin was united in marriage to Kay Frances (Schwartz) Sheeley.

Growing up on a farm, Marvin continued the practice on a rural Mt. Union farm. At the same time, Marvin pursued another career in welding. He began his trade with Bill Davis Welding in Winfield. This led Marvin to extend his career for Schmidt Construction, a company specializing in building bridges. Marvin eventually opened up Timmerman Welding where he continued his trade.

Marvin also practiced his trade for Shop Services, which was located in the Midwest Central Railroad building, where he was part of metal fabrication and development. Shop Services crafted steam locomotive replacement parts as well restored steam engines. Marvin and shop Services crew were especially noted for building the "Neverland Express" train for Michael Jackson, which operated on Jackson's property. Marvin additionally helped design a special diesel hydraulic system for the train.

When Marvin was not farming or welding, he loved to be outdoors. He thoroughly enjoyed hunting duck, pheasant and deer, as well as fishing as much as he could. His interest in wildlife led him to raising baby quail with Orin "Bub" Kepper. Marvin's love of the outdoors developed into memberships in organizations which promoted the outdoors, namely Ducks Unlimited, Pheasants Forever, White Tails Unlimited and the NRA.

Those thankful for sharing in Marvin's life include his wife of 51 years, Kay of Mt. Union; a sister – LaVanda Rothenberger of Mt. Pleasant; 3 children – Jeff (Heather) Timmerman of Mt. Pleasant, Larry (Sunshine) Sheeley of Monticello, KY and Belinda Baumert of Winfield; his grandchildren – Tristin Timmerman, Christina Miller, Katlen (David) Hughes, Mendy McCreight, Misty (Jason Nichols) Kellogg, Mark (Josh) Atcher and Melanie (Danny) Missey and his great-grandchildren – Sarah and Beau Hughes, Koltin & Addi Little, Madisen, Kaylynn, Treyton, Brylee, Hannah, Kellogg, Jayda and Alex Nichols, Grayson Atcher and Tatum Missey.

Marvin's parents, and son-in-law, Roger Baumert, precede him in death.

Services were Monday, March 9 at the Kimzey Funeral Home, 213 North Main Street, Mount Pleasant. Burial was in the Trinity Cemetery, rural Mt. Union.

Those considering an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the Winfield Fire and Rescue Department.

Online condolences may be directed to www.kimzeyfh.com.