Marvin Ralph Kaschke

Marvin R. Kaschke, born in 1933 in Oshkosh, Nebraska, to Emma and Henry Kaschke, passed away peacefully on July 15, 2025, in Montana.

Marvin graduated from Oshkosh High School and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in Wildlife Management and Range from Utah State University. He began a distinguished career with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service in 1956, serving at Medicine Lake, Malheur, C.M. Russell, the National Bison Range, and both Sheldon and Hart Mountain National Wildlife Refuges. After retiring from federal service in 1988, Marvin found joy and purpose in tree farming, specializing in Christmas trees.

He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army, including overseas deployment.

Marvin was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, and traveling. He was also deeply engaged in his community through membership in the Lions Club, Elks Club, POI, VFE, the Society for Range Management, and the National Christmas Tree Association. His faith was important to him, and he was a devoted member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church.

In 1968, Marvin eloped with the love of his life, Janet and he adopted her two children Wayne (Debbie) and Melanie (Kevin), and in 1970 welcomed their daughter, Petrina (Dean). Janet passed away in 2013. In later years, Marvin found companionship with Jean Kvande, beginning in 2018 and had many adventures.

Marvin will be remembered for his quiet strength, his love for the land and wildlife, and his unwavering dedication to family and service.

He will be greatly missed by his sister Myrna Graham; brother Orville Kaschke and his wife Mary; sister-in-law Jo Ann Good and her husband Doug; as well as their families.

He was preceded in death by his sister Nadine & Bud Auftengarten, sister-in-law Sharon & Eldon Merrifield, and brother-in-law Gene (& Josie - still living) Davis. Marvin will also be remembered fondly by many other extended family members and friends from the many places he lived and the wide array of activities and organizations he was involved in throughout his life.

Marvin's legacy of service, stewardship, and love for nature will continue to inspire those who knew him.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, July 21, 2025, at 11:00 am at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Polson.