Mr. Marvin Eugene Minegar, 95, of Elkhart, Indiana, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at 11:20 a.m., surrounded by the comfort of a life well-lived.

Born in Elkhart on February 11, 1931, Marvin was the son of the late William Henry and Mabel Helen (Fish) Minegar. He was preceded in death by his dear wife of 40 years, Shirley Ann (Lowell) Minegar, whom he married on April 17, 1960. He was also preceded in death by his brothers Keith, Robert, Donald, and Raymond Minegar, and Hershel Emmons; his sisters Juanita Minegar and Carol A. Bruce; and, in a more recent and tender loss, his little Maltese companion, Abby.

Marvin leaves behind his loving children, Kimberly A. Herbster of Warsaw and Kevin E. Minegar of Elkhart; his sisters, Phyllis Oswald and Shirley Cook, both of Elkhart; along with a wide circle of extended family, dear friends, and former coworkers who will miss him deeply.

A proud graduate of Concord High School’s Class of 1949, Marvin went on to serve his country in the United States Air Force for four years, stationed at Nellis Air Force Base in Las Vegas, Nevada. Though he often spoke of his time as an aircraft mechanic, his children only later discovered that their dad’s time in service also included piloting smaller non-combat aircraft—a quiet testament to his skill, courage, and love of flight.

That love never left him. After his military service, Marvin built a long and respected career as a mechanical draftsman and drafting checker, contributing his talents at LaBour Pump Co., Bendix Missile Plant, and Miles Laboratories, where he worked until his retirement at age 62. Yet even while grounded in his professional life, his heart was always in the sky.

An avid aviation enthusiast, Marvin had been flying as early as 1953, though he didn’t officially earn his private pilot’s license until 1977—proof that it’s never too late to chase what you love. As a member of the Mishawaka Pilots Club, he delighted in taking family and friends up for flights, sharing with them the quiet wonder and freedom he felt every time he left the ground. Even in his later years, he would often be found gazing skyward, spotting aircraft long before anyone else even knew to look.

Marvin was a man who embraced life with a uniquely joyful perspective. He loved warm weather—truly loved it—and the hotter the better. In a twist that perfectly captured his outlook, his favorite day of the year was the first day of winter, because it meant the days would soon begin growing longer again. Conversely, the first day of summer was his least favorite, as it marked, in his mind, the subtle beginning of summer’s end. It was classic Marvin—always thinking just a little differently, and always with a smile.

His love for his family was boundless, and he considered being a dad his greatest privilege. A man of deep faith, Marvin maintained a close and steady relationship with his Lord throughout his life. He and his wife were married at Grace Brethren Church in Elkhart, where they became active members and raised their family. In later years, they attended Nappanee Missionary Church, and following her passing, Marvin continued to faithfully attend for more than 20 years.

He also enjoyed sports—bowling in leagues with his brothers and hitting the golf links whenever he could. He was an avid runner for many years, and as a devoted sports fan, he faithfully cheered on Concord High School basketball, Notre Dame football, Indiana University basketball during the Bobby Knight era, and, more recently, caught the excitement of Indiana Fever women’s basketball.

For several years, Marvin was a familiar and friendly face at Notre Dame Stadium, serving as an usher and enjoying the energy of game days. Whether at the stadium, at home, or simply going about his day, Marvin carried with him a hearty sense of humor and a quick wit. He had a knack for making up little songs and ditties, filling ordinary moments with lightness and laughter. Music was always close to his heart. He grew up singing at home with his siblings and harmonizing together. He loved barbershop harmony and shared his voice in church choirs throughout the years.

Marvin’s life was one of quiet accomplishments, deep love, enduring faith, and simple joys. He leaves behind a legacy not only of what he did, but of how he lived—with curiosity, humor, and an unshakable appreciation for the beauty around him…especially if it was flying overhead.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Center for Hospice Care.