CORY - Marvin Lee Bettenbrock, 97, of Cory, IN, passed away at home on Monday, February 10, 2025 at 2:30 am.

He was born to Rudolph and Mabel Bettenbrock on October 22, 1927 in Terre Haute.

Marvin was preceded in death by his parents, Rudy and Mabel; a son, Van Ray Bettenbrock; one sister, Margaret Ruth McCullough; and 2 brothers-in-law, Billie McCullough and Gary Schopmeyer.

Marvin grew up in Terre Haute with his parents and one sister, Ruth. Marvin went to Sugar Grove Elementary and then graduated from Glenn High School with the class of 1945. Marvin had several nicknames in his younger years like Butter and Jake, but as the years went by, he was called Papaw and Podunk.

When the family moved to Cory in 1948, Marvin attended a square dance on a double date with Nina Faye Butt, Hubert and Louise Fagg. Nina got really dizzy, but the relationship continued, and he married Nina on April 17,1949 in a very small wedding at the Methodist Church in Cory which lasted for 74 years.

They lived in the summer kitchen at his parents' house for a year, and they were so happy in their first little home. They bought the farm by his parents' house and they remained in that family home the rest of their lives. They became proud parents of three sons: Vern, Van, and Von.

One of the saddest days in Marvin's life was the loss of his second son, Van Ray. He was a special needs child who passed away when he was about ten years old. Marvin and Nina carried that loss in their hearts for the rest of their lives.

Marvin worked hard on the dairy and grain farm with his dad. He and his dad always enjoyed working together. He developed a special closeness with his animals, naming his cows and caring for his dogs and cats. His pride and joy was his Super 77 Oliver Tractor.

Milking cows twice a day and farming kept them busy every day, but Marvin kept active at their church as well. They were very loyal, devoted, and faithful members of the Cory Zion Church. They held the position of Church Treasurer for several years, attended Sunday School, the church song leader, sang in the choir and the community choirs, provided special music at church, dearly loved music, and participated in all church activities. Their love and dedication to the Lord was evident throughout their years together. They provided a solid and faithful Christian home for their family.

Marvin loved family gatherings, cutting grass, gardening, playing softball, bowling on Thursday nights, and watching basketball games, especially IU and baseball games, especially the Chicago White Sox. He worked at the Cory Apple Festival, the Zion picnics, and the Turkey suppers for many years.

They loved visiting and playing games with family and friends. Many evenings you would pass by their house to see Roy and Norma's car or Gary and Reba's car and just knew they were laughing together and playing cards and Aggravation. He also loved logging with Gary Schopmeyer for some years. He also enjoyed volunteering at the Good Samaritan Nursing Home in Jasonville to assist residents in bowling for several years.

Nina passed away on July 26, 2023, and we thought Marvin would soon follow, but with that strong, faithful, and positive attitude he continued living in his home with the help of his family and Gentiva Hospice. Marvin bounced back and became stronger until his death.

Survivors include his two sons: Vern (Pam) Bettenbrock of Cory, Von (Kim) Bettenbrock of Cory; three grandchildren: Clayton (Marie) Bettenbrock of Cory, Kari (Chris) Durham, of Clayton, IN, and Logan (Elyssa) Bettenbrock of Andalusia, Alabama; seven great-grandchildren: Caden, Mallori, and Cambri Bettenbrock, Jack and Rylie Durham, Alina, and Ayla Bettenbrock; one special sister-in-law: Reba Schopmeyer; several nieces and nephews, and extended family members.

Marvin was a dedicated and loyal husband, dad, grandpa, great-grandpa, farmer, and friend. He was grounded in his faith, and was true, fun loving, appreciative, sincere, and truly satisfied in his life. He will be greatly missed on that beautiful Bettenbrock corner south of Cory.

Marvin had a wonderful sense of humor, great personality, great faith, and a positive attitude for life. Marvin is now rejoicing with the Lord and his family and harmonizing in Heaven with the angels.

There will not be a visitation or funeral service for Marvin, but there will be a private graveside service at Oak Hill Cemetery with Steve Blaydes officiating.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Clay County Humane Society.

The family would like to express a special thanks to Gentiva Hospice of Indiana. They provided such amazing care, concern, and help for Marvin. They went above and beyond their duties and responsibilities to make Marvin happy and safe. A very special recognition to Glenda, Angie, and Bert for their love, loyalty and excellent and sincere care for Marvin. They loved him deeply and were truly our special angels among us.

Also, thanks to Steve Blaydes for making Marvin's dream come true by arranging some wonderful square dancers to perform for him last year and for his weekly visits to provide spiritual support and encouragement for Marvin.