Marvin Edward Polchow, age 94 of Moorhead MN, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 20, 2026, under the compassionate care of HIA Hospice at SMP Health-St. Catherine South, Fargo, ND.

Marvin was born June 28, 1932, to William and Ella (Rettman) Polchow. He graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1950 and maintained lifelong friendships with several of his classmates. Anyone who knew Marvin would appreciate the motto printed beside his senior picture: “Don’t do today what you can leave for tomorrow.” It perfectly reflected his quick wit and easygoing approach to life.

In 1956, Marvin enlisted in the United States Navy, a decision that took him on adventures far beyond Minnesota’s borders. During his service, he traveled to places including Greece, Spain, and Italy, collecting stories, memories, and even a couple of tattoos that served as lasting reminders of those experiences.

On March 31, 1962, Marvin married Janet Miller. Together they made their home in Moorhead and raised three daughters, Lori, Joni, and Vicki. While Marvin and Janet later divorced, they remained close friends throughout the years and shared a lasting bond through their family.

Marvin spent 30 years with Gamble Robinson in Fargo, which later became Food Services of America. The friendships he built there endured long after retirement. He especially enjoyed meeting friends for lunch, he and his best buddy Jim were always on the hunt for the next great lunch special.

Marvin found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved fishing, deer hunting, playing cards, gardening, cooking and creating beautiful paint by number artwork. Family and friends enjoyed his homemade salsa and pickles, and there was always a newly framed painting on display in his home. He was also a devoted dog lover, and his beloved companions, Tippy, Otto, and Bruno, brought him great happiness over the years.

More than anything, Marvin will be remembered for his quick wit, loyal kindness, and love of family and friends. His stories, laughter, and warm presence will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Marvin is survived by his daughters, Lori (Ty) Ellefson and Vicki (Willie Battle) Polchow; grandchildren, Arron Ellefson, Andrew (Haley) Ellefson, Claire Ellefson, Jennifer Gjestvang, Brandon Polchow and Hannah Polchow; great-grandchildren, Josh Gjestvang, Mya Gjestvang, and Graham Ellefson; brother, Harold (Betty) Polchow; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jan Polchow, his daughter, Joni Polchow, and siblings Bill Polchow, Ruth Duesterhoeft, and Verna Polchow.

Visitation will be Friday, September 25, from 10:00 - 11:00 AM, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 AM, in Wright Funeral Home, Moorhead, MN.

Interment will be in Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church Cemetery, Hutchinson, MN.

In lieu of gifts, memorials received in Marvin’s memory will be donated to a local animal shelter.