Marvin Dale Lyness was born in his parent's house in Pomeroy Washington on Halloween of 1934. He died in his own house in Orofino, Idaho on June 2nd, 2026. In between those years in his long life, aged 91, he married and had three children, Laura of Spokane WA, Mark of Clarkston WA and Natalie of Terrebonne, OR. In addition to his children he is survived by 8 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. His parents John Lyness, and Inez Requa Lyness preceded him in death as did three of his four siblings.

Marv graduated from Orofino High School in 1953, but grew up in Ahsahka. He went into the US Army where he was stationed in Baumholder Germany, with Battery A of the 265th Field Artillery Battalion. In the Army he was decorated with the Good Conduct Medal, and the Army of Occupation Medal. He was also a distinguished Carbine Marksman and an expert with the rifle.

When he left the US Army after visiting 12 countries in Europe, he used the GI bill to go to Kinman Business University in Spokane where he graduated and became a bookkeeper. He worked in several places including Wenatchee, and in 1978 moved to Kodiak, Alaska because of his enormous love of nature and wildlife.

In Alaska he spent some time hunting and fishing, but his big love was wildlife watching, collecting wildlife art, photography and geology. He also lived in Seward and Wasilla Alaska before moving back to Orofino in 2001 to retire. He enjoyed the wildlife in his yard in Orofino. Supporting local restaurants in downtown Orofino was a favorite pastime, as was improving his property. The time spent with his immediate and extended family was very special to him. The history of Alaska and Idaho fascinated him. And Marv especially enjoyed the natural history of those two states. Funeral services are at St Catherine's Parish in Kamiah on June 19th at 1:00 p.m. Internment will follow in the cemetery in Kamiah. A reception will be at his house in Orofino.

Trenary Funeral Home in Kooskia is in charge of arrangements