Marvin Howatt obituary

Marvin Lester Howatt, known to family and friends as Marv, passed away on Friday, October 9, 2026, at the age of 85.
Marvin was born on March 7, 1941, in Lake City, Minnesota, to Lester and Henrietta Howatt. He grew up in Lake City and graduated from high school in 1959. Following graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army, serving in Missouri and Louisiana before being released from active duty to the Army Reserve to pursue his college education at the University of Minnesota.
While attending college, Marvin married Darline Connell on September 7, 1963, at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church. The ceremony was performed by Rev. Ralph Goede. They began their married life in St. Paul and celebrated 63 wonderful years together. After completing his college education, Marvin and Darline returned to Lake City, where they established their family farm. There, Marvin raised beef cattle, raised swine for a time, and grew crops. Together, they raised their three children, Todd, Kirk, and Colleen. Over the years, Marvin and Darline also shared many years of friendship and fellowship through card clubs with friends and neighbors.
Marvin’s faith was an important part of his life. He was actively involved at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, serving on the church council, singing in the choir, and participating in the Lutheran Boy Pioneers. He also played an instrumental role in establishing video recording at the church so those unable to attend in person could still participate in worship. His commitment to the community included serving as a 4-H leader, serving on the Wabasha County Fair Board, participating in Farm Bureau, and working for many years as a Pioneer Seed salesman. He was also an enthusiastic member of the Republican Party. An outdoorsman, Marvin spent many years as a member of the Cliff and Coulee Climbers snowmobile club, where he rode and helped groom the trails for others to enjoy. He was also an avid deer and turkey hunter. Throughout his life, Marvin found purpose in his faith, satisfaction in his work, enjoyment in the outdoors, and companionship in the many organizations and friendships that shaped his years. He shared a long and meaningful life with Darline and their family, leaving a legacy rooted in dedication, community involvement, and enduring relationships.
Marvin was preceded in death by his parents, Lester and Henrietta Howatt, and his daughter-in-law, Mary (Graf) Howatt, wife of Kirk.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Darline; his children, Todd (June), Kirk, and Colleen (David); his sister, Helen Moyer; and his five grandchildren, Alexandra, Caleb, Zachary, Kylie, and Addison.
A Memorial Service will be held Friday, October 23, 2026 at 11 a.m., at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Lake City with Reverend Tom Schroeder officiating. Visitation will be one hour before the service at the church. Burial will at Lakewood Cemetery in Lake City. Online condolences may be left on www.mahnfamilyfuneralhome.com.