Marlin King, 71

Marlin C. “Butch” King Jr., age 71, of Burr Oak, passed away Sunday, February 2, 2020 at his home.

Marlin was born in Dowagiac on January 8, 1949, a son of the late Marlin and Ester (Churchill) King.

Marlin graduated from Cassopolis High School with the class of 1966. He then continued his education and received a bachelor’s degree from Southwestern Michigan College. After earning a bachelor’s degree, Marlin went on to earn a master’s degree in Vocational Education from Michigan State University.

On June 21, 1969 Marlin married Jennie L. Stamp in Dowagiac. She would later precede him in death on August 14, 1992.

Marlin worked as a school teacher in Colon where taught middle school life science for 30 years. Marlin also acted as the youth FFA advisor for 25 years, helping many of his teams win state and national awards. He was also a 4-H leader in wood working for many years. Marlin also had several rental properties and enjoyed a small wood working business.

Marlin is survived by two daughters; Michelle Wiley of Sturgis, and Sheila Nelson of Burr Oak, three granddaughters; Ashlynne (Matt) Whitsel, Nicolette and Sabrina Nelson, and one brother, Karl (Janet) King of Edwardsburg.

Following Marlin’s wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be a visitation held on Saturday, February 15, 2020 from 4 to 6:30 at the Schipper Funeral Home in Colon. Following the visitation there will be a memorial service at 6:30 with Rev. David J. Farrell officiating. Private burial of ashes will take place at a later date in Lakeside Cemetery. In Lieu of flowers the family asks donations be made to St. Jude Children Research Hospital, the Centreville FFA and the Branch County Career Center FFA. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Online condolences may be left at Schipperfuneralhome.com