Willard Madison Marvel died at Rex Hospital on Easter Sunday after a long and courageous battle with ALS.
He was born in Milton, DE. Will served in the United States Air Force for eight years before completing a degree in Computer Science. He managed the Technical Support Division of Perdue, Inc. for the last 17 years of his career. Will had a passion for cycling. Before his illness, Will and his wife spent many hours riding their tandem bicycle, planning vacations around cycling events with a wide circle of friends. Will was an active member of Genesis United Methodist Church and loved his church family.
He was a devoted father, friend, and mentor.
Surviving are: his cherished wife, Carol Adams; two children, Sharon Johnston and Jeffery Marvel and his wife, Blair; two stepchildren, Kimberly Small and Clayton Small and his wife, Ann; brothers, James Marvel and his wife, Marion, Phillip Marvel and his wife, Beverly; sister, Amy Smith and her husband, Carlton.
Son of Ruth Marvel, Will was predeceased by his father, Harry Marvel. A tireless champion for quality living with ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease), Will inspired all who knew him. He was a role model for many affected by this terrible disease and kept his wry sense of humor. He spent much of his time involved with ALS support groups, planning fundraisers, and participating in ALS Advocacy Days in Washington, DC. Although Will's presence will always be with us, he will be greatly missed.
A celebration of Will's life will be held 1:00 p.m. Thursday, April 12, 2007 at Genesis United Methodist Church, 850 High House Road, Cary, NC 27519. A memorial service will also be held in his hometown of Milton, DE on April 21, 2007.
Will would want to be remembered by donations to the ALS Association, Jim "Catfish" Hunter Chapter, 120-101 Penmarc Drive, Raleigh, NC 27603.
Published in The News & Observer on 4/11/2007.
Notice • Guest Book • Flowers • Gift Shop • Charities