Marvin E. LeMaster

Marvin E. LeMaster, 89, of Defiance, passed away surrounded by his loved ones on Wednesday, March 18, 2026.

He was born in Portsmouth, Ohio on May 9, 1936 to the late Dennis and Helen (Smith) LeMaster. Marv was a 1954 graduate of Glenwood High School in New Boston, Ohio. He proudly served our country in the U.S. Army National Guard from 1959 to 1965. On October 23, 1955 he married Shirleyann Jordan, who preceded him in death on August 28, 2022.

Marv was a faithful member of First Baptist Church. He worked as a Journeyman Millwright at General Motors for 45 years until his retirement in 1998. He was an active member and past president of UAW #211, and chairman and past president of Defiance United Way. Marv took great pride in his work and took joy in his family. Everything he did revolved around his grandchildren. Marv was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. Marv was very proud of building the Second Baptist Church on East Second Street with his friends and co-workers, Paul Luzar and John Pullen. He also enjoyed taking walks and having breakfast at McDonald's with his friends.

Marv is survived by his children, Paul (Rossana) LeMaster of Brownsville, Texas, and Ami LeMaster of Defiance, and his grandchildren, Monique Hitchcock, Genevieve Hitchcock, Erika (David) De La Garza-and their children Elia and David De La Garza, Andrew LeMaster, Roberta LeMaster, and Hanna (Trent) Hoerner. He also leaves behind his siblings, Richard McDowell and Martha Francis.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Shirleyann; his son, Mark A. LeMaster; brothers, Dennis E. LeMaster, Jimmy R. LeMaster, Thomas McDowell, Edwin McDowell; and sisters, Mariam Thomas and Carolyn McDowell.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 9, 2026 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance. A Memorial Service will follow at 1:00 pm at the funeral home, with Rev. Ron Monteith officiating. Marv will be laid to rest in Riverside Cemetery, with graveside military rites conducted by VFW #3360.

Memorials are suggested to First Baptist Church. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com

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