Marvin Ilmen Kiehm

Marvin Ilmen Kiehm of Waldport, Oregon, beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully in Prosper,Texas, on March 5, 2025, at the age of 81. Born in Los Angeles, California, on October 13, 1943, Marvin lived a life full of hard work, adventure, laughter, and love. Marvin was the devoted husband of the late Stephanie Connell of Waldport, Oregon. He was also previously married to Susan Day of Wilsonville, Oregon and Valerie Zoph of Pacifica, CA. The loving son of Frances Caldwell and Isaac Kiehm, Marvin was preceded in death by his brother, Ethan Kiehm, and is survived by his sister, Sandra Kiehm. He leaves behind a family with many fond memories: his daughters, Ava Plass (Steve) of Indio, CA, Monique Miller (Nathan) of Mckinney, TX, and Denise Velazquez of Sammamish, WA; his cherished grandchildren, Sara Krueger (Todd), Angela Mieher, Sophia Miller, Madeline Miller; and his great-granddaughter, Payton Krueger. Marvin built a successful career in the automotive industry, owning and operating National Motor Exchange in Oakland, California with Susan Kiehm, and a Goodyear location in Tualatin, Oregon with daughter Ava Plass. However, it was his passions outside of work that truly defined him. An adventurer at heart, Marvin loved to travel—whether it was cruising the open seas or exploring the U.S. in his RV. He was happiest near the water, teaching others to water ski, scuba diving, snorkeling, or simply enjoying a peaceful day of fishing on a boat. Cooking was another of his great joys; he never needed a recipe, measuring everything with his heart, especially when preparing meals for holiday gatherings and parties. A true foodie, he could appreciate a hidden gem of a mom-and-pop restaurant just as much as a five-star meal in San Francisco. And, of course, he never turned down a well-seasoned pot of beans and ham hock—a comforting taste of his Southern roots. Marvin’s presence was larger than life, his humor unforgettable. His motto was simple but powerful: “Always leave them laughing.” And that’s exactly what he did—leaving a world full of people who will smile at the thought of him. To honor his wishes, a memorial and celebration of life will be held on the shores of Lahaina, Maui, where he dreamed of being laid to rest. He often spoke of this, wanting his loved ones to return to Maui year after year, not in mourning, but in celebration. He envisioned Hawaiian shirts, flower leis, and a luau in his honor, filled with music, laughter and love. In lieu of flowers, Marvin requested donations be made to Waldport Food Share, a cause close to his heart. Contributions can be mailed to: Waldport Food Share PO Box 2231 Waldport, OR 97394 Or made online via this direct donation link: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=2984AKKKZ2YVJ Abba Dabba Doo, Dad! We love you forever, and we will see and laugh with you again.