In Memory of
Marvin Drinkwine
Marvin (Marv) Francis Drinkwine, 87, answered the Lord’s call to return home on Thursday, December 29, 2016.
Marv was one of nine children born to Henry and Mina (Gratreaks) Drinkwine. Born in Boylston, just south of Superior, WI, on July 10, 1929, Marv was raised in the Catholic faith. Marv’s philosophy was “We took what was given us, did what we could with it, AND PRAYED A LOT.” Marv’s usual reply to how are things going, was “I can’t complain.”
Marv entered the U.S. Army in 1948, and spent the next twenty years serving with honor. While stationed in San Francisco, CA, Marv was introduced to Arlene Marie Schlenz, who he recently referred to as the “most beautiful woman” he ever met. Marv and Arlene were married on December 28, 1957 in Fleming, CO, and celebrated 57 years together before Arlene passed away on September 22, 2015.
Marv and Arlene had three children; Timothy, Karen and Michael. When Marv retired from the Army in 1968, the family moved to Renton, WA. where Marv began working as an electrician for Boeing.
Outside of work, Marv was a loving husband, father and grandfather. Marv would leave love notes around the house for Arlene to discover when she opened a cupboard, or cleared a table, and he helped his children with everything from school homework to volunteering as an Indian Guide and Cub Scout leader. As an all-around handyman, Marv enjoyed woodwork and was always ready to help friends and family with home and car repairs.
Marv is survived by his three children; Tim and Patricia (Ayers) Boisvin, Karen Drinkwine, Mike and Laura (Hintz) Drinkwine; three grandchildren; Kelsey, Lindsey and Joe, two brothers; Al and Milt, and three sisters; Judy, Jo and Marge. Marv joins his parents Henry and Mina; two brothers, Harvey and Phil; one sister, Lou; and his wife, Arlene who preceded him.
Marv’s final resting place is Tahoma National Cemetery, 18600 SE 240th Street, Kent WA 98042-4868. Marv will receive Military Funeral Honors on Saturday, June 10, 2017.
The family gives special thanks to St. Francis Hospital, and the Rev. William McKee for their care of Marv during his final days.
