Marvin Zepf

Marvin Charles Zepf, known affectionately as "Marvelous Marvin" to all who knew him,
lived a life of remarkable adventure, hard work, courage, and humor. Born on August
10th, 1931 in Troy, New York, Marvin's journey through life was one marked by service,
love, and laughter. On December 14th, 2024, Marvin's story on this earth came to a
peaceful close at 93 years old as he soared into the heavens.
Marvin's early years in Troy were just the beginning of an extraordinary life that would
see him rise to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Air Force. His
dedication to his country was evident in his valor, for which he was awarded the Purple
Heart and the Distinguished Flying Cross for his service during the Vietnam War. After
his 20 year military career, Marvin continued to serve his community as an SBA Loan
Officer, helping small businesses to flourish and leave a lasting impact on the
community.
Education was a cornerstone of Marvin's life. He was a proud alumnus of Union
College, where he earned both his Bachelor and Master of Business Administration
degrees. He also made captain of his college basketball and soccer teams. The
discipline and knowledge he gained there were the foundation of his success in both his
military and civilian careers.
Marvin's heart was vast, and within it, he held an abundance of love for his family. He
was a cherished father to Vickie, Nancy, his late daughter Marci and a respected father-
in-law to Valerio. As a grandfather, he instilled wonder and joy in the lives of Tatum,
Chad, Matthew, Sophia, Marcus, and Brandon. His nephews, Harry and Steve, also
benefited from his wisdom and fun spirit. Though he was preceded in death by his
beloved wives, Marion and Norma, the legacy of their love lived on through the close-
knit families they built together.
He loved to golf, and relished the time with his buddies, and his late brother Harry on
those courses. Often followed by laughter, stories of the day, and cocktails in the
clubhouse, also known as the 19th hole.
The game of baseball was always a favorite and he was a loyal Detroit Tigers fan until
the very end. Poker nights and Dominoes were legendary, not just for the game, but for
the close, amazing friendships that were so dear to him for many decades.
What truly set Marvin apart were the qualities that endeared him to everyone he met.
He was the embodiment of kindness, always there with a helping hand or a word of
encouragement. His hearty laugh was contagious, and his sense of humor was a gift,
brightening the lives of all who had the pleasure of his company.
He was definitely the life of the party back in his day!
Let us carry forward his kind spirit, warmth, and infectious laugh.Thank you for showing
us the power of a life well-lived and may we honor your memory by living each day with
the same qualities that you possessed. Rest in peace, our dear darling Marvelous
Marvin.
Your flight was truly amazing and heroic.