Marvin L. Wentz, 100, of Napoleon, ND, passed away peacefully on September 28, 2026, at Wentz Living Center in Napoleon. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am, on Monday, October 5, 2026, at the Napoleon United Methodist Church. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Burial will take place at the Napoleon City Cemetery.

 Marvin was born April 7, 1926, on the family farm in Logan County. He was the oldest of three children born to Adam and Bertha (Rau) Wentz. On June 25, 1951, Marvin married the love of his life Darlene Doerr. They were married over 73 years until Darlene passed away in January 2025.

 Marvin attended country school until the family moved to Napoleon in 1934. He graduated from Napoleon High School in 1944 as valedictorian. After graduation, he spent a short time in the U.S. Navy. Once WWII ended, he attended NDSU for two years. In 1948, he returned to Napoleon and bought the furniture store from his father and Uncle Eddie. He remained in the furniture business until 1962. After selling the store, Marvin became a full-time farmer, farming some of the land that his grandfather John Wentz Sr. homesteaded in 1894. As time passed, he increased his acreage and got involved in the cattle business. He enjoyed this venture for many years, selling the cattle in 2009 and having the farm auction in 2011 at the age of 85.

 He enjoyed traveling as time permitted and achieved his goal to see all 50 U.S. state capitols. He looked with awe at both God’s and man’s creations. He and Darlene enjoyed several cruises and trips to the Caribbean, France, Germany, Italy, and across the United States and Canada. They also spent winters in Arizona for many years. Some of Marvin’s favorite times were spent with family. He looked forward to vacationing with his children and grandchildren, attending their activities whenever possible, and welcoming their visits to Napoleon. Over the course of Marvin’s 100 years, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, bowling, playing cards, reading, and even square dancing in the early years. He loved music and socializing with people whether at John Deere, over a game of cards, or during happy hour. A witty man, he always enjoyed a good laugh. His smile and twinkling blue eyes lit up a room. He was a humble man who will be remembered for his helpful, kind, and generous nature. He seldom lectured but got his point across in brief words of wisdom. His intelligence earned him the nickname “Prof” in his high school years. 

Marvin was a member of the United Methodist Church in Napoleon and served on various boards, including the Napoleon School Board for nine years. He was a member of the American Legion since 1945, as well as the Elks, El Zagal Shriners, and Masons. In 1984, he was appointed to the Medcenter One Hospital Board, serving until 1994. It was a position that he especially enjoyed. He was also the Logan County NDSU Harvest Bowl recipient in 1988. 

Marvin’s legacy of love and devotion will live on in son Steven, daughter Kathy (Steven), four grandchildren Rebeca, Katrina, Meghan (Michael), and Adam, and three great-grandchildren Joan, Erin, and Michael. He is also survived by brother Dr. Myron (Prudence) Wentz, brother-in-law David (Nancy) Doerr, and many nephews and nieces. 

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Darlene, parents Adam and Bertha, brother Charles, and daughter-in-law Geri.

We are so grateful for all the years of laughter, wisdom, and love. “It’s ALL good.”

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Camp Grassick or Wentz Living Center.