Marvin John Lofquist

• Marvin's service will be live-streamed

https://www.youtube.com/@valleyofpeacelutheranchurc4174/streams

Marvin John Lofquist October 19, 1943 - June 16, 2026

It is with heartfelt sorrow and profound gratitude for a life-well lived that we announce the peaceful passing of Marvin John Lofquist on June 16, 2026, after a courageous 14-year journey with Alzheimer’s. Born on October 19, 1943 in Chicago, Illinois, Marv was the cherished son of Ralph and Viola Lofquist. He leaves behind a legacy of love, learning and laughter that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

From a young age, Marv displayed a remarkable aptitude for the sciences, a passion that he pursued throughout his academic and professional life. An alumnus of Augustana College (Rock Island, IL) and Northwestern University, where he earned his Ph.D. in Inorganic Chemistry. Marv dedicated his career to educating and inspiring future generations. His tenure at Camrose Lutheran College in Alberta Canada and Ferris State University in Michigan was marked by his unwavering commitment to teaching and his steady ascent to the role of associate dean at the College of Arts and Sciences. In later years, Marv brought his talents back to Northwestern University, continuing to shape minds and foster curiosity.

Beyond his professional achievements, Marv’s life was enriched by his beloved wife, Elaine, with whom he shared an extraordinary marriage of 60 years. High school sweethearts, Marv and Elaine’s union was a testament to enduring love, friendship and partnership. Together they nurtured, loved and treasured their children and grandchildren.

Marv’s life was one of service and community involvement. Whether coaching his children’s soccer teams with a well-thumbed “Soccer for Dummies” book or singing with Elaine in church choirs, Marv embodied the spirit of a true community leader. His commitment extended to various roles, including chairing the Big Rapids Board of Education and the Evanston Historical Society.

A man of many talents, Marv enjoyed woodworking, making a train engine that son, David could ride on as a toddler and a dollhouse for daughter, Laura. He also enjoyed acquiring many tools so he could be the “handyman” around the house. Marv and Elaine enjoyed many evenings together having season tickets to the Lyric Opera, Chicago Symphony and more. These “date nights” were a source of joy and connection throughout their life together.

After retiring, Marv and Elaine moved to Golden Valley MN to be nearer to children and grandchildren. In retirement, Marv faced the challenge of Alzheimer’s with remarkable grace and humor. He became a powerful advocate, serving on the Early Stage Advisory Group of the Alzheimer’s Association and tirelessly campaigning for research funding. In 2014, Marv and Elaine were founding members of the Giving Voice Chorus - a choir for people living with dementia and their support partners. There are now over 50 similar choirs throughout the United States. Giving Voice stands as a testament to his belief in the power of music and community. Marv often said, “Don’t tell me what I can’t do, tell me what I can do, and I can still sing.”

Marv is survived by his wife, Elaine; son, David (Lucy); daughter, Laura (Nathan) Lee; grandchildren: Miri, Jonathan (Julia), Rebecca (Nathaniel), Andrea (Kenzo), Andrew and Matthew; brothers, Dale (Diane) and Roy (Ethel) Lofquist; sister-in-law, Carole Behnke; and an extended family who will hold his memory dear.

Marv was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Viola Lofquist; his in-laws, George and Gertrude Rauhut; and his brother-in-law, George Behnke.

A funeral service will be held Saturday, July 11, at Valley of Peace Lutheran Church, 4735 Bassett Creek Drive, Golden Valley MN, 55422. Visitation will begin at 10 AM, with the funeral service starting at 11 AM. Lunch will be served immediately following the service.

The service will be live-streamed

https://www.youtube.com/@valleyofpeacelutheranchurc4174/streams

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to Giving Voice, Parks’ Place Memory Care in Plymouth MN or Valley of Peace Lutheran Church.

The family extends their gratitude to the compassionate staff at Parks’ Place Memory Care and Park Nicollet Hospice for their support and care.

Marv’s warm smile and indomitable spirit touched countless lives. Marv will be remembered for his generosity, wisdom and the joy he brought into the world. We celebrate the life of a remarkable man who lived fully, loved deeply and gave us the gift of his humor until the end!