Marvin Vincent Ruebel

Marvin Vincent Ruebel Born July 16, 1933, in Lomita, California, and died on July 27, 2026 (age 93). Marvin is survived by the love of his life, his wife, Marylyn Jane Ruebel (also 93). They began dating in their senior year of high school and married nearly five years later, on August 9, 1955. In over 70 years, they rarely spent a night apart, if ever.

Marvin was the oldest of four siblings. At nearly 6'5", he loved basketball and excelled at it, earning a scholarship to Long Beach State University, where he helped secure several championships for the “Nugget Burros,” the school’s early mascot.

After college, Marvin enlisted in the U.S. Navy as a Lieutenant JG and was stationed in Newport, Rhode Island, where he and Marylyn settled into married life. He later served in San Diego and traveled the high seas aboard the USS Sioux, spending time in Alaska, Japan, and other distant places before his honorable discharge in December 1957. He continued serving his country in the Naval Reserves for many years to come.

Upon leaving the Navy, Marvin began a high school teaching career that spanned over 35 years between San Pasqual High School and Escondido High School. He was a well-respected and beloved teacher, faculty member, and friend. Over the course of his career, he earned a master’s degree and a doctorate, taught mathematics, served as a student counselor, and coached high school basketball — his favorite role.

Marvin retired from his academics’ career in 1994 and from then on could often be found tinkering in the yard, building patios, garden trellises, and anything else Marylyn dreamed up. They regularly attended church together, where Marvin was coaxed into singing in the choir. His greatest joy, though, was the countless trailer road trips he and Marylyn took with their succession of small dogs. Caravanning with dear friends, they enjoyed campfires along countless beach campgrounds, made annual trips to the Padres spring training sessions in Arizona, and traveled across the U.S. and Mexico.  Through it all, Marvin was never far from his favorite pipe or a cigar.

Perhaps best known to his nieces and nephews for his love of banjos — although he never played in front of an audience — Marvin considered himself a “closet banjo” player. The same was true of his affection for the harmonica. He will also be remembered for his humor and quick wit. His laugh could light up a room, and if that didn’t work, he’d entertain you with his favorite 1960’s song, “Chocolate Ice Cream Cone!”

Above all else, Marvin will be forever known for the great love he had for his wife. “Marylyn,” he’d say, “I love you more than a pig loves slop.” Theirs was a love story for the ages, one that stood the test of time. For over 75 years, they professed their undying love for one another, holding hands even until the very end.

Rest in peace, until we turn the corner and meet again, our dear loved one.

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Marvin Vincent Ruebel, please visit our Tree Store.