Marvin Lawrence Schreck, beloved father, grandfather, brother and friend, passed away peacefully on July 25, 2024, in Gardnerville, Nevada, with his daughters by his side. He was 85. Known for his outgoing and friendly demeanor, Marv, aka “Marvelous,” touched the lives of everyone he met with his warmth and sense of humor.
Marvin was born on September 7, 1938, to Charlotte Ensley Schreck and Phillip Schreck, in Turlock, CA. He grew up playing baseball and spent weekends working in his father’s repair shop and at a local sheep ranch. After graduating from Turlock High School, he served in the US Army and was stationed in Panama, where he developed a keen interest in insects and butterflies. He later earned a bachelor’s degree from San Jose State University in Entomology.
Marvin led a successful career as a sales executive in the agricultural industry, retiring from the Bayer Corporation in 2002. He adored wine and loved visiting winery clients along the California coast. On the job, his personable nature and dedication set him apart, at one point earning a National Salesman of the Year award. He was a well-loved colleague and a mentor to many, but he was best-known for his loud, explosive dress shirts and his legendary sales presentations that were as informative as they were hilariously entertaining. In recognition of this unique talent, Bayer awarded him the title of “Best Slideshow Presenter - Ever.”
He loved sports, especially football, and was a fervent fan of the 49ers and the SJSU Spartans. He was also a dedicated supporter of the SJSU Alumni Association. Marvin held a lifelong passion for the outdoors, especially the Sierra Nevada mountains, where he spent decades skiing, camping, hunting and fishing. He could also hold his own on the golf course.
Marvin was a member of the Lutheran Church, most recently the Trinity Lutheran Church in Gardnerville. He is survived by his daughters Kristina Schreck and Heidi Schreck, his sister Patricia Inskeep, his cousin (and “brother”) Jerry Schreck, and countless friends who considered him family.
A celebration of Marvin’s life will be held on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at 12 PM at the Vintage Gardens (Redwood Events) in Modesto, CA, 4342 Dale Rd. Please contact Kristina Schreck for more information at kristinaschreck@gmail.com.