Marvin Krook

Marvin Everett Krook, born March 21, 1931 in Boyd, MT, passed away in Billings on Sunday, May 20, 2012 after an arduous battle with cancer. A graduate of Joliet High School in 1949, Marvin was drafted into the U. S. Army from 1952 – 1954. He trained at Camp Roberts in California and took an assignment in Alaska, where he served as a Radio Communications Specialist. After leaving the Army, Marvin attended Eastern Montana University using the G.I. bill. There he met Carole Ohlrich on a blind date; they were married in August 1958. He graduated from the University of Montana in 1959 with a Bachelor of Arts in Physical Science. After a short stint of teaching in Thompson Falls, the couple attended New Mexico Highlands University, where they obtained their Masters degrees in 1963.

Marvin dedicated his life to Science Education in Chester, MT, where he and Carole started their family. He devoted twenty-nine years to teaching physical science, biology, chemistry and physics, and was senior class advisor for many years. He was a longtime member of the National Education Association and the Montana Science Teachers Association. Upon retiring in 1992, he continued his passion for teaching by substituting along the Hi-Line for over 10 years. Marvin was a well-loved teacher, mentor and a father figure to many.

Marvin developed a passion for bird watching after taking a university ornithology course. He participated in numerous bird counts and surveys, and kept a lifetime bird list. Additionally, he enjoyed hunting, fishing and being outdoors. In keeping with his true teaching fashion, Marvin would give his fellow hikers lessons about rock formations, flora, and fauna along the way.

Marvin was an active church and community member, serving on numerous boards and committees, including the Liberty County Conservation District, the Weed Board, and the United Methodist Church.

Marvin is survived by brother, Ronald (Lorraine); sister, Beverly Rankin (Chuck); son, Carson (Carol Sachs) of Brownsville, TX; daughters, Stephanie Krook (Fernando Cano) and Holly Krook of Madison, WI; granddaughters, Carlee and McCailee Sachs-Krook; wife Betty (Bettes); and numerous nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by parents, Victor and Florence (Warila) Krook; brother, Eugene Krook; sister, Shirley Krook; and wife, Carole (Ohlrich).

Marvin will always be remembered for his love of science and nature, his off-beat sense of humor, and his dedication to his family, friends and community.

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