Obituary: Marvin I. Carstens

Marvin I. Carstens
August 6, 1928 – February 25, 2008
Marvin I. Carstens died Feb. 25, 2008, in the Walbridge Wing of Pioneers Hospital in Meeker at the age of 79.
He was the oldest son of Nona Rector Carstens and Alex Carstens. He attended school in Meeker and was one of 24 proud graduates of Rio Blanco County High School class of 1946. Marvin entered the Army in 1952 and proudly served his country for two years.
In 1969 Marvin married JoAnn Murray of Meeker. Thanks to her unique personality, understanding, devotion and loving care, they enjoyed 38 years of marriage. A “grumpy old man” with a heart of gold, Uncle Poo was especially loved by his nieces and nephews.
A mechanic who could fix anything, Marv enjoyed 30 years working at the Ford Motor Company as well as several years at Rio Blanco County Road and Bridge.
His happiest times were spent with his family and friends hunting arrowheads and appreciating the great outdoors. He always had a pet and spoiled it in every way. He was very proud to have celebrated 25 years of sobriety in January and of being a charter member of Elks Lodge No. 2195 in Rifle. He was also a member of the Meeker Fire Department.
His personality was a source of humor and entertainment at the Walbridge Wing. Both the patients and staff collected a new language and means of expression from Marv’s colorful vocabulary.
He is survived by his wife JoAnn, son Joe and daughter-in-law Tina, grandsons Josh and Drew, granddaughters Maryinna and Savannah, and great-grandson Evan. Also surviving are his brothers Clayton (LaPriel) of Grand Junction, Jim (Dawn) of Palisade and sister Karen (Bob) Miller of Rifle. Preceding him in death was one brother, Meredith.
A viewing and gathering for family and friends was held at Cochran’s Funeral Home in Meeker Feb. 28. Memorial contributions can be made to the Walbridge Memorial Wing, 345 Cleveland St., Meeker, Colo., 81641.