Marvin Lee Eslinger was born in McLean County on March 25, 1932, to Dan and Tillie (Seidler) Eslinger. He was raised and attended school in Malcolm Township. Marvin and Irene Bovkoon were married October 12, 1952, in Riverdale. Following their marriage they moved to the Coleharbor area. He was a successful rancher, dairy and grain farmer. Marvin passed away peacefully at home on October 30, 2009.

Marvin served on the Underwood Rural Fire District Board, the Victoria Township Board of Directors and the Underwood Farmer Elevator Board. He was a member of Augustana Lutheran Church of Underwood and also served on the church council.

Marvin was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He was very proud of his grandchildren's accomplishments. He was known by all as a giant of a man with a heart of gold.

Marvin is survived by: his wife Irene, one daughter Bonnie Nichols and son-in-law Michael of Southlake, Texas, one son Allan and daughter-in-law Diane of Coleharbor; grandchildren, Sarah, Daniel and Natalie Eslinger; siblings include sister Lorraine Flath of Bowman, brother James Eslinger and wife Sharon of Bismarck.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one infant granddaughter.

Services: Will be held at Augustana Lutheran Church of Underwood at 10:30 a.m. on November 3. Interment will be at the Coleharbor Cemetery.

Visitation: Today, November 2, from 3 to 8 p.m. at Thompson Funeral Home, Garrison.

To sign the online register, go to (www.garrisonthompson.com).