Marvin L. Menge, 94, Halstad, MN, died Tuesday, April 21, 2015, at the Halstad Living Center, Halstad, MN.

Marvin was born in Ada, MN, November 27, 1920, to Paul and Amelia (Braunschweig) Menge. The Menges lived and farmed in Ada and Beltrami, finally settling in rural Halstad, where Marvin lived to the end of his life. Marvin attended Halstad High School, and in winter, because country roads were frequently snow-closed, he boarded with a family in Halstad.

Marvin farmed with his older brother, Howard, continuing to run the farm after Howard's death in 1974. Marvin retired from farming several years ago, living on at the farm where he had grown up.

Marvin was an avid birdwatcher and kept several feeders filled, both at the farm and at his lakeside cabin at Tullaby Lake, near Waubun. In recent years he was especially saddened to see fewer birds, especially the friendly little chickadees. Fishing on Tullaby was a joy for Marvin, as he spent his leisure time with friends and family catching all kinds of fish, and especially liked ice fishing and spearfishing.


In Marvin's later years, he rescued several dogs from shelters and other homeless situations. They grew to love him, and he them. Seldom did he go somewhere that there was not a dog waiting in the car. And they always got a treat from his pocket on his return.

Marvin is the last of his generation of Menges in the Red River Valley and was preceded in death by his parents, five brothers and five sisters. He will be greatly missed by family, friends and numerous nieces and nephews, who were always welcomed to the farm.

The family wishes memorials be directed to local humane shelters and to Hospice of the Red River Valley. 1701 38th St. S. Fargo, ND 58103

Funeral: 2:00pm, Tuesday, April 28, 2015, at Faith United Church, Ada, MN.

Visitation: One hour before the service at the church.

Burial: Ada City Cemetery, Ada, MN