Marvin W. Rinker's Obituary
Marvin Wayne Rinker, 93, of Vermilion, Ohio, passed away peacefully on March 12, 2025 surrounded by family as they shared memories of a life well lived.
Born on July 5, 1931, in Lymburn, Alberta, Canada, Marvin was the only child of Archie and Florence (Patty) (née Holcom) Rinker. He graduated from Weatherwax High School in Aberdeen, Washington in 1949.
Marvin attended Washington State University where he was a member of the swim team, baseball team, and Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. He also played semi-pro baseball, traveling throughout the United States. When the Korean War began during his college years, Marvin chose to enlist in the United States Navy rather than be drafted. After auditioning for and being accepted into the Naval School of Music in Washington, DC, he graduated as a Seaman Musician and was later promoted to Petty Officer 2/C. He served as both a musician and a radar operator on the USS Salem Heavy Cruiser.
While in the Navy, Marvin met the love of his life, Elizabeth Jean (née Kudasik). They married on Valentine's Day, 1954, and had three children together.
Following his four years of military service, Marvin continued his education at The Ohio State University, graduating in 1959 with a B.S. in education. He majored in instrumental music and minored in vocal music. In 1960, he began his teaching career, instructing music at various schools throughout Ohio. Clearview High School in Lorain, Ohio remained his favorite, where he formed lasting relationships with many of his students. Marvin also served as a bailiff at the Oberlin Municipal Court for 19 years.
An avid gardener, Marvin took a special interest in growing hostas, helleborus, succulents, and daffodils. After retirement, he developed a passion for cycling and competed in the Senior Olympics. At the age of 75, he began running and completed numerous 5k, 10k, and half-marathon races.
Marvin was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 52 years, Elizabeth Jean, and his parents, Archie and Florence (Patty) Rinker. He is survived by his three children: Denise (William) Gross, Shawn (Deborah Bryant) Rinker, and Lisa Dawson; seven grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and one granddog.
The family extends special thanks to Carolyn Joseph and her staff at Kingston Residence of Vermilion for their exemplary care and compassion.
On Thursday, March 20th, the family will receive friends starting at 10:00 a.m. at Dovin and Reber Jones Funeral & Cremation Center, 1110 Cooper Foster Park Road, Amherst, OH. At noon, the Reverend Charles Diedrick will preside over a celebration of life service at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Ridge Hill Memorial Park Cemetery, Amherst. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Lakeview Park Historic Rose Garden in Lorain, Ohio. To send an online condolence, please visit www.dovinreberjones.com.
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