Obituary of Marvin Gene Colvin

MARVIN "GENE" COLVIN February 3, 1935 ~ November 23, 2014 Marvin Gene Colvin, a 37-year resident of Vancouver, WA, passed away peacefully Sunday, November 23rd at the Ray Hickey Hospice Center. He was born and raised in Craigsville, Virginia. Gene is survived by his son, Michael Colvin, daughter-in-law, Krista Colvin, and two grandchildren, Wes and Annie Colvin of Camas, WA; and sisters, Barbra Kindle, Holly Kuykendall and Phyllis Heishmann. He was preceded in death by his brother, Wesley Colvin; and his loving wife of 34 years, Faye W. Colvin. "Gene", as he preferred, was loved by all who knew him. After graduating from Craigsville High School in Craigsville, Virginia in 1952, he served in the U.S. Navy for twenty years. Gene retired a Radarman Firsts Class from the US Navy in 1971. Gene served in Vietnam and was awarded numerous awards and medals for his service. He was also an instructor and commended by his superiors in leadership and instruction. Gene's favorite years were aboard the USS Long Beach CGN 9. Gene was known for his story telling, professionalism, and always known to have a good time. He enjoyed his Navy years fondly and loved his country. Gene pursued a career in education as he graduated from the University of California at Davis in 1976 with a History degree. He moved to Vancouver, Washington with his family to pursue a teaching career in November of 1977. Tragically, a serious car accident in 1979 left Gene with traumatic injuries that would end his hopes of teaching. Gene loved baseball, his favorite team was the St. Louis Cardinals and enjoyed taking in games all around the country with family and friends. He instilled a love and respect for the game in his son and grandson and they enjoyed talking about the history of the game. Any opportunity to see a live baseball game he took. Gene was always teaching aspects of the game and its history. He made numerous visits to Safeco Field with his son and grandson. He enjoyed watching his grandson play baseball in Camas as well. Gene worked his garden every summer. A tradition passed to him from his father. Neighbors would welcome his generous harvests of tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions. Gene had a keen interest in politics and attended caucuses locally, and would always vote. In 2008, Gene moved to The Quarry in Vancouver, WA. He was beloved by the staff and residents. Gene passed peacefully at the Ray Hickey Hospice Center in the loving company of Mike and Krista by his side. A Memorial and Celebration of the Life of Gene Colvin will be held on Monday, December 8th at 6:00 p.m. at The Quarry, 415 SE 177th Ave., Vancouver, WA 98683 in the Theater. Please join us in celebrating his life with stories and song. Straub's Funeral Home & Columbia River Cremation in Camas was in charge of the arrangements. To send condolences or to sign the online guest book please visit www.straubsfuneralhome.com