Marvin Ernst

Dr. Marvin L. Ernst April 23, 1940 - September 15, 2020 Marvin Leslie Ernst passed away on September 15th, 2020 after a long period of declining health. Marvin was born on April 23rd, 1940, in the small farm community of Albert City, Iowa to Leslie and Hazel (Thacker) Ernst. He was 80 years old. Marvin earned his Bachelor's degree from Buena Vista College in Storm Lake, Iowa, where he met his future wife, Nora Sue Wilford. They were married for 51 years and together raised three daughters: Leslie Elizabeth (Ernst) Boldt, Alicia Elaine Ernst, and Andrea Evelyn Ernst. Marvin was a passionate advocate for education, going on to earn a Master's Degree from the University of South Dakota, and a PhD in Sociology from Oklahoma State University. He spent over 50 years at various universities; learning, teaching, and developing programs. During his life he impacted countless students and colleagues. He served as Assistant Dean of the Graduate School at the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley, CO before moving to Chattanooga, TN. He was particularly proud of his tenure at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, serving as Senate President, Associate Dean of the Graduate School and Vice-Provost. His courses in Interpersonal Communication were popular and very well attended. Around town, former students would often approach to greet him and comment on lessons he taught that served them well long after graduation. His love of teaching was well-known and one of the defining factors of his life. Marvin was a life-long gardener, animal lover, and outdoor enthusiast. Growing up as a farm boy, he never lost his love for the great outdoors. He spent many happy days boating on the Tennessee River -- the grandchildren will always remember splashing in the "donut" with Grandpa while keeping their toes away from the fish! Marvin loved to travel to any location; meeting new people, striking up conversations, trying different foods and having new adventures, He always remembered that one great little local restaurant where he could get a plate of barbeque or pasta. He was happiest where he could watch the sun set over a mountain range. He was well known for his dry humor and quick wit, sharing laughter, making friends and socializing. He passed on his quirks, foibles and traits to his daughters and his six grandchildren; Jacob Everson, Hannah Masek, Nicolas Masek, Juliet-Danielle (Everson) Lane, Ryan Schrader, and Nathan Schrader. He will be sorely missed. Due to the covid19 pandemic, services will be private.