Marvin King Pendergrass

Marvin King Pendergrass took his final train ride on Wednesday November 6, 2019 – departing his station here on earth with a heavenly destination in store.  Without a doubt, the first people to greet him on the platform were his mom and dad – Tom and Barbara Pendergrass.

Marvin was born April 22 1953 in Long Beach, CA – which led to his love for the beach, ocean and all things under water.  He met the love of his life, Mary Loftus, in 1969 at El Porvenir Christian Camp and they married in 1972.  After moves to Inglewood CA and Gallup NM, they eventually settled in Albuquerque in 1987, with their 3 daughters – Jennifer, Holly, and Amanda.

Marvin loved the outdoors – hiking, kayaking, snorkeling.  He was the absolute best tour guide, although many of his adventures involve minor injuries or the loss of important electronic devices.  We have no doubt that he is currently finding uncharted trails and kayaking routes in heaven.

Marvin was also very fond of trains.  His office was full of train memorabilia, he enjoyed chasing trains, and he spent his entire career working for Amtrak.  Many of his vacations included or centered around what trains were in the vicinity.  Many of his grandkids’ favorite memories involve riding the train or finding spots in the Rockies to watch a steam engine coming through the mountains.

The most important decision Marvin ever made came when he was 9 years old and he made Jesus Christ his Lord and Savior.  That single decision impacted every area of his life as Christ took over as lead engineer.  He loved the Lord and served him in whatever capacity he could – in his family, in the church, at work, and in the community.  He was an amazing servant for God, and his faith was evident to all those who knew him.

He was a great man who made a significant impact on those who knew him.  He is survived by:

his wife Mary; three daughters: Jennifer Condit & husband Chris; Holly Colson & husband Chris;  Amanda Stoddard & husband P.D.; a sister Paula Babik & husband David; 6 grandkids; 2 kayak-loving dogs Molly & Minnie; and many other family members.

Papa/Poppy – find us some good trails and new rivers to kayak, we can’t wait to join you on the great adventure in the future!