Marvin E.

Kirst

Marvin E. Kirst, 85, Lake Mills, died peacefully at home on Sunday, April 9, 2017 surrounded by his family.


Marvin was born in Milwaukee on June 15, 1931, the son of the late John and Anita (Hintz) Kirst. In January of 1949 he was the first graduate of the Electronics studies program at Milwaukee Boys Tech High School. He served in the U.S. Army from 1952-1954.


Marvin had a variety of work experiences, starting with Wisconsin Telephone Co. and including managing a Standard gas station on Wisconsin Ave. in Milwaukee, working for Helwig Carbon Products and installing sound systems in homes. He then found the path he was to follow for the rest of his career, selling educational materials to school districts throughout Wisconsin. His career spanned the eras of film strips to installing audio language labs and finally to building and installing computer networks. Marvin was a life long learner and avid reader, continually updating his knowledge and skills.


It was through his sales travels that he met the love of his life. Irene Altenburg was a fourth grade teacher at Blackhawk Elementary in Sauk Prairie when Marvin stopped by. They were soon engaged and were married on June 15, 1963 at the Mamre Moravian Church. They were partners at Lake Mills Dance Club for 20 years, sailed Rock Lake and enjoyed travels to Central Europe, the British Isles and Alaska


Marvin was active member of the Moravian Church, serving on boards for the Lakeview and Lake Mills Moravian Churches. He also served on several committees of the Western District of the Moravian Church. Marvin and his son Ken were part of a mission team that rebuilt the roof of a Moravian school on the Caribbean island of St. Kitts.


After retiring, Marvin led the project for relocating the original Mamre Moravian log church from its location on Highway Q north of Milford to the Aztalan Museum site. He recruited many volunteers and organized the dismantling, moving and reassembly of the church.


Marvin also helped organize the Jefferson County chapter of Habitat for Humanity and was instrumental in the construction of several Habitat homes.


He earned the title, "Grandpa Fix It" in home, across town and on bi-annual trips to NY and PA to visit children and grandchildren. Building decks, a gazebo, remodeling, and repairs of all kinds were done with the joy of just being with those he loved.


Survivors include his wife of 53 years, Irene; their children, Kevin (Sarah) of Lake Mills, Kristine (Sean) Steinke of Waukesha, Ken (Karen) of Northampton, PA; eight grandchildren, David Kirst, Thomas Kirst, Solomon Steinke, Rebekah Steinke, Ruth Steinke, Simeon Steinke, Abigail Kirst, Emma Kirst; sister-in-law Lila Painter of Jacksonville, IL and other relatives and friends.


A private family burial will be held at the Mamre Moravian Cemetery. A memorial service for Marvin is planned for June 17, 2017 at the Lake Mills Moravian Church.


If desired, memorials may be made to the Lake Mills Moravian Church, Lake Mills Aztalan Historical Society or Jefferson County Habitat for Humanity.