Marvin William Hempel

Marvin William Hempel, age 86, of Portland, passed away peacefully on October 31, 2024, following complications from dementia. Born on June 27, 1938, to Marcus and Beryl Hempel, Marvin shared his early years in southeast Portland with his twin brother, Marcus, and younger brother, Richard. He graduated from Franklin High School in 1956 before pursuing higher education at Portland State University, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and later completed his Master’s degree. Marvin proudly served his country with six years in the National Guard Reserves.

Marvin's lifelong dedication to education and passion for learning left an indelible mark on the community. Early in his career, he played a pivotal role at a small business college, helping to develop the curriculum that would inspire countless students. Over the years, Marvin held several important positions within the Centennial School District, including Teacher, Personnel Director, and Curriculum Director. His love for teaching extended beyond the district as he also taught accounting classes at Mt. Hood Community College. Marvin’s expertise and enthusiasm for business and education led him to author several instructional books on accounting, bookkeeping, and salesmanship, works that reflect his enduring commitment to sharing knowledge.

In 1961, Marvin married Ardellis, the love of his life. Together, they built a warm and loving home in Portland’s Eastmoreland neighborhood, raising four children—Dorinda, Kenneth, Denise, and Deanne. Marvin was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who cherished family above all else. His retirement years were filled with travel, family gatherings, and countless hours enjoying the serenity of the Pacific Ocean. Marvin had a fondness for sports, with a particular love for baseball. He enthusiastically shared this passion with his children and grandchildren and was a loyal Seattle Mariners fan, rarely missing a game.

Marvin is preceded in death by his parents, Marcus and Beryl, and his brothers, Marcus and Richard. He is lovingly remembered by his wife of 63 years, Ardellis, and his children: Dorinda Hempel; Kenneth Hempel and his wife Jennifer, and their daughters Kaitlyn and Jenna; Denise Moore and her husband Scott and son Cade; and Deanne Weisgerber and her husband Greg, along with their daughters Abigail and Claire, and so many nieces and nephews.

A service celebrating Marvin’s life will be held on Wednesday, November 13, at Skyline Memorial Gardens & Funeral Home. Friends and family are invited to a viewing beginning at noon, followed by a service at 1:00 pm, with an ice cream social to honor Marvin’s joyful spirit and love of family. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Marvin's memory to support the OHSU Layton Aging and Alzheimer’s Disease Center, helping to further the research and care for others facing similar challenges.