Marvin Dwayne Buckalew, 80, of rural Russell, passed away peacefully on July 6, 2025. Services will be held on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at 10:30 A.M. at Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton, Iowa. A visitation will be held from 4:00 to 6:00 P.M. on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at the funeral home. Interment will be held at Bethel Cemetery following the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Marvin’s name may be made to Pin Oak Marsh in Chariton.
Marvin was born on September 7, 1944, in Williamson. He was a lifelong Iowan whose love for family, farming, laughter and left a lasting mark on all who knew him.
Marvin grew up on the family farm purchased by his great-grandparents Dora and Isaac F. Etter in the 1800’s, and then by his parents in the fifties. He farmed and remained deeply connected to the land throughout his life.
Marvin served with the Lucas County road-maintenance crew from age 19 for 40+ years. He also served his community through Junior church, where he brought joy to children through puppet shows and bible lessons.
In retirement, Marvin developed a passion for baking and canning with a particular fondness for horseradish processing in the early September warmth. His pecan rolls, apple pie, cookies, and 'Marvin beans' became family favorites. He also rekindled his childhood keen talent for quilting. Many lucky relatives became surprise recipients of his quilting talents. It should be noted: none of the quilts were returned!
Marvin had a deep love for the outdoors, especially hunting with friends and family. He took great pride in passing on that tradition notably, to a late cousin and then, lately, to that cousin's grandson, Braden, who now controls the deer population on the family farm.
Marvin is said to have brought joy and laughter to his encounters with scores of folks. His witty and humorous storytelling is legendary. All the way from tales of his golden curls, being cut by mischievous uncles at age 3, to his regrettable recitation of his origins at kindergarten: "...I was pooped on a stump by an old crow..."
Marvin was a devoted friend to many, including lifelong pals, Ed Hull, Don Danner, Doug Prather, Leland and Loran Whitlatch. His stories of hunting, fishing, and youthful misadventures – like racing Ed to Chariton on gravel roads, or ditch-hopping on a four-wheeler and requiring 100+ stitches – will be fondly remembered.
Though we may rejoice here in knowing Marvin is heaven bound, his absence leaves a profound void. Gone are the daily chats with Ed and afternoon talks with Karen, to be consigned to that rich realm of memories of a life well lived.
Still, not all is lost. For we are witnesses to Jeanette and Marvin's six-decade love story. An altogether suitable testament to enduring love and partnership.
God speed, Marvin.
Marvin is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Jeanette Kathryn; a daughter, Karen Buckalew (Dennis Kyabaggu); grandson, Soloman; sister Evelyn (Ed) Hull; and many cherished cousins, nieces, nephews, and neph-cuzes.
Marvin is preceded in death by his parents Willard Marvin and Lura Arlene Davis Buckalew, a brother Homer Doyle, a sister Gayla Arlene Pierschbacher, and a daughter Karla Kay Buckalew.
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