Marvin John Shollenberger

Marvin John Shollenberger passed away at the age of 94 on December 10, 2023, having lived a life marked by devotion to his family, his work, and his community. Born on March 13, 1929, in Hamburg, Pennsylvania, Marvin's early love for the land took root. His path led him to Tieton, Washington, where he found his life partner, Marjorie, and together they built a life over 73 years of marriage. Their union was blessed with children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who remained a source of immense joy and pride throughout his life.

Retiring in 1987 from the Army Corp of Engineers in Walla Walla, Washington, Marvin concluded a distinguished career depicted by his extraordinary smile, his empathetic nature, and his ability to develop close connections with family, friends, and colleagues. His professional tenure extended beyond the Army Corp of Engineers, as he also made significant contributions to the Bureau of Reclamation on the Columbia Basin Irrigation Project. With the Bureau, he was instrumental in developing irrigation systems that were vital for agricultural prosperity in the region. He was a sought-after civil engineer in the Pacific Northwest, with a broad and varied influence on the region's development.

In addition to his career, Marvin had a connection to the land as a farmer and rancher in Washington and Oregon. His skill in cultivating crops and tending to livestock revealed his passion for farming and his respect for agricultural traditions. His knack for nurturing not only crops and cattle but also relationships resonated throughout the communities in which he lived.

Marvin was preceded in death by his beloved son, Keith John Shollenberger, and eleven of his twelve siblings. His legacy continues through his wife, Marjorie; his daughter, Gayla (Chuck) Ernst; his son, Kenneth (Nancy) Shollenberger; his five cherished grandchildren, Amy Johnson, Bryan Shollenberger, Teri Bean, Tracie Shollenberger, and Deanne Sims; and his great-grandchildren.

The family invites friends and loved ones to honor Marvin's memory at the funeral service to be held on December 18, 2023, at the United Church of Christ in Eltopia, Washington. The day will commence with a viewing at 9:30 am, followed by the funeral service at 10:00 am. A reception will be held from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm, with graveside services at Mountain View Cemetery in Walla Walla at 1:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the United Church of Christ, PO Box 207, Eltopia WA 99330.