OXFORD – Marvin S. Smith, 83, of Norwich, passed away Tuesday evening, Feb. 6, 2007 at the New York State Veterans’ Home of Oxford.
The son of Jacob and Pauline (Schultz) Smith, Marvin was born on March 24, 1923, in Spring Valley. He grew up in Rockland County, but left home at the age of 16 to travel to Wyoming to work on the ranch of his cousin. For the next 5-6 years, Marvin worked in rodeos and rode Brahma bulls. In April of 1943, he entered the United States Army and served his country until his honorable discharge in March of 1946. Returning to Rockland County, Marvin worked as a yardman and as a foreman for several lumber mills over the years, working side by side with his son. He was a strong-willed but good-hearted man who liked to have his own way. An avid hunter and fisherman, he enjoyed hunting trips with his son, and liked keeping a garden at his home.
On Aug. 7, 1977, in Hillcrest, Marvin married Frances Zabett. They moved to Norwich in 1978, and Marvin worked briefly for Webb & Sons Lumber in Sherburne, retiring in 1980 due to his health.
Marvin is survived by his wife, Frances Smith; by his children: Edward Smith and wife Amanda of Sidney, Judy Conklin and husband Fred of Hancock, and his son with whom he enjoyed spending time, Chuck Davenport Sr. and wife Cindy of Oxford; by 12 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, and several cousins. Marvin was predeceased by his son, Edward Cole.
Funeral services for Marvin will be held at 6 p.m. Saturday from the R.J. Fahy Funeral Home. Interment will be at a later date in Mt. Hope Cemetery. Friends are invited to call on Sat. from 4 until the service at 6 p.m.