Marvin G. Cravens

Marvin George Cravens passed away peacefully with his family surrounding him on November 28, 2015. He was born on February 12, 1930 in La Crosse Wisconsin to Mark and Margaret (Madson) Cravens. He graduated from Central High School in La Crosse in 1948, and then enlisted in the US Navy. After returning home from the Navy, he started a career with Dairyland Power Cooperative that lasted to his retirement at age 62.

During a hot summer day after work he decided to go to the local root beer stand for a cold pop and met the love of his life, Theresa Kramer. Six short months later, he proposed and they were married on March 17, 1951. Together they shared 64 years of marriage and were blessed with three children, Michael, Linda and Tammy.

Affectionately known as "Swede", by close family members, they knew that family was his priority. He loved spending any time he could with his kids, grand kids and great grand kids. He also enjoyed watching the Packers, even through the tough years. He enjoyed bowling and golfing for many years and followed his grand kids through all their sports seasons.

He is survived by his loving wife Theresa, son Michael (Mary) of St. Peters, Missouri, daughter Linda (Jon) Pierce of Onalaska, and daughter Tammy (Donald) Neitzel of Galesville. He is further survived by his grandchildren Sabrina (Paul) Teays, Jason (Katie) Pierce, Joshua Pierce, Lucas (fiancée Crystal Leanna) Neitzel, Lindsay Neitzel, and great grandchildren Peyton and Andrew Pierce and one brother Thomas (Marlene) Cravens, and several nieces and nephews. Marv was preceded in death by his parents and two great grandchildren Alexander and Parker Pierce.

His family would like to thank Gundersen Health System for the wonderful care Marv received during this difficult time. The staff was very helpful and supportive.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, December 5th, 2015 at 10:00 AM at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, La Crosse. Rev. Dr. Mark Jolivette will officiate. Burial with military honors will be in the Onalaska City Cemetery. Friends may call at the Schumacher-Kish Funeral & Cremation Services of Onalaska, 907 Sand Lake Road, on Friday from 4:00 – 7:00 PM, and at the church on Saturday from 9:00 AM until the time of services. Memorials may be given to Our Savior’s Lutheran Church.