Marvin L McKenzie Sr.

Marvin Lee McKenzie Sr. passed away on March 2, 2018 in Hermiston, Oregon, the same place he was born 91 years ago on May 14, 1926 to parents, Charles and Jennie Trainer McKenzie. However this is not what his Honorable Discharge papers for the Seabee’s, the construction battalion of the Navy stated.  Marvin was so determined to enlist that he stretched the truth about his age to make certain he was 18 years old instead of 17, which he was at the time he entered in 1943.  Marvin was always proud of his service in the Seabees and attended many of the Seabee reunions over the years.  

Marvin was number 6 of ten children (Carol, Irene, Charles, Della, Donald, Marvin, Lawrence, Virginia, Kathleen and Hugh). Marvin was preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Patricia (Pat), his parents and also by all of his siblings except Hugh. Marvin is survived by his 3 sons; Marvin Jr. (& Cinda), Don (& Marcy), Steve; brother: Hugh; Marvin and Pat had 4 grandchildren whom they were very proud of: Adam, Ashton, Taylor and Christina; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. 

Throughout the years Marvin was an active participant in his sons’ sports especially baseball where he coached all his sons at various levels.  He and Pat also had a passion for golf and enjoyed many rounds not only on Umatilla and Morrow County courses but also on courses in Indonesia, Hawaii, Arizona, California and many courses in central Oregon.  

Marvin’s work as a construction manager took him to many places in the US; Massachusetts, Kentucky, Montana, Wyoming, California, Washington and Oregon.  He and Pat had the opportunity to explore many destinations before settling back in Irrigon, Oregon.  They enjoyed countless friends from a multitude of places.  Both old friends and new friends, they cherished these relationships and spoke often of the friendships.

A graveside service for both Marvin and Pat will be held on Friday, April 28th at 11:00 A.M. at the Hermiston Cemetery, Hermiston, Oregon.

Please sign the online condolence book at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com

Burns Mortuary of Hermiston, Oregon is in care of arrangements.  

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