Marvin Otto Hass, 87

Marvin Otto Hass, also known as "Grampy," went home to be with the Lord on Oct. 24, 2014.

Marvin was born on Jan. 7, 1927, in Wisner, Neb., where he grew up farming with his parents and two brothers. His love for farming grew deep roots in the rich soil of Nebraska.

After graduating from high school, Marvin enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. While stationed in Biloxi, Miss., he married Betty Sue Hass of Hattisburg on April 16, 1949. In June 1953 their only child, Pam, was born in Washington D.C.

Marvin and Sue were stationed throughout the U.S. during his military career, which satisfied their adventurous spirits. His favorite destination was Alaska from 1954 to 1958; there, his love for hunting and fishing soared.

Marvin retired from the U.S. Air Force as Chief Master Sergeant in 1970 and returned to farming on 200 acres outside Spokane, raising Charlois cattle, alfalfa and peacocks!

In 1977, after selling the farm, they moved to Hayden Lake where they spent Sue's remaining years being a huge part of their daughter's and granddaughter's lives.

Marvin's favorite places were among the mountains, lakes, and streams - and working in his garden. He was an avid outdoorsman which included snowmobiling, fishing, and hunting with his beloved mules.

After retiring from the Post Office, Marvin volunteered with Search & Rescue and with Backcountry Horseman. Many hours were spent packing timbers to build bridges and walkways up Long Canyon in Boundary County and in the St. Maries area. His mules also packed food and camp supplies for the trail-building crews.

Fishing adventures included jigging and trolling for kokanee in Twin, Spirit and Coeur d'Alene lakes in the summer, and ice fishing for perch in the winter. There were many fishing trips for salmon off the coast of Washington and British Columbia. Hunting seasons were spent in the Lochsa Bitterroot Wilderness Area packing in and hunting for elk and moose. Soaking in Stanley natural hot springs was always a highlight of every trip.

Marvin planted row upon row of fruits and vegetables in his garden every year without fail; this was his pride and joy. He loved sharing stories about his life, and he always had a pocket full of candy. Marvin enjoyed having friends and neighbors stop by unannounced and was happy to give them a tour of his five acres in Hayden. He worked hard at everything he did, and was gardening and harvesting walnuts and fruit until the end. He was loved by his family and friends.

Marvin is survived by his precious dog, Blue, his faithful companion; his daughter, Pam Ponsness (Dennis) of Porthill; granddaughter Alicia Stanley (Trevor); three great-grandsons: Jake, Brandon, and Luke Stanley of Port Orchard, Wash., granddaughter April Near of Hayden; along with step-grandchildren: Shelley Simonson, Greg Ponsness, Sam Ponsness and their families.

A Celebration of Life will be held outdoors at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 2, at Marvin's home in Hayden, Idaho, overlooking the garden and pasture - dress warmly. Finger food potluck to follow the service. Memorials can be sent to The Salvation Army Kroc Center of Coeur d'Alene.

Please visit Marvin's online memorial at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com and sign his guestbook.