Obituary of Bryan Ralph Marvin

Bryan Ralph Marvin, 70, passed away August 24, 2009, in Tacoma General Hospital. Born in Tacoma March 27, 1939, Bryan was the only child of Ralph and Mayabelle Marvin. He grew up in the nearby Midland area, where he attended Midland Elementary School and was graduated from Franklin Pierce High School in 1958. Bryan served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1962 to 1967 and was on active duty for 6 months during that time. He was an employee of Pacific Northwest Bell/Quest for 26 years. At work, at home on a project of his own or someone else’s Bryan had the patience to solve any problem with which he was presented, and his innate ability to think “outside the box” made him an invaluable employee and team player. An avid outdoorsman, Bryan loved fishing and hunting. His outgoing personality and love of team sports led him to compete in bowling and softball leagues for a number of years. He coached his son’s basketball team for four years, was a member of the Tacoma Sportman’s Club and a member of Tacoma Outboard Association. Bryan considered everyone he met a friend, and the number of individuals who returned his friendship is legion. A big man with a big and generous spirit, he was a true friend to all. His interest in others continued even after he became ill, and he was always ready with a witty or humorous remark and a twinkle in his eye. Bryan married Betty Jean (Benum) Meath in 1978. When the couple blended their families and moved into their new University Place home, the entire crew of seven pitched in to develop the landscaping and add a swimming pool. They became a family that worked and played together. Bryan and Betty Jean’s combined family includes five children: David Marvin (Sharon); Brock Marvin (Jeannie); Tracie Haines (Tom); Mark Meath (Stephanie); and Gary Meath (Kassie). Their nine grandchildren include Nikki Marvin, Serena Marvin, Crystal Adams (Jessica), Lindee Russell (Daryl), Kristina Haines, Sara Meath, Elise Meath, Kaitlyn Meath, and Megan Meath. The couple also has two great grandchildren. A memorial service for Bryan will take place at 1:00 pm on Thursday, September 3, at the University Place Presbyterian Church, 8101 27th St West in University Place. The family suggests that anyone wishing to make a contribution in Bryan’s memory might consider MultiCare Hospice of Tacoma P O BOX 5200 MS: 3901-1-HH Tacoma, WA 98419, or the University Place Presbyterian Church.