Marvin George Draves

On March 6, 2026, our world got a lot quieter. Marvin George Draves, 77, passed away at home, leaving behind a family who just wasn’t ready to let him go.

Marvin was born in Richland Center in 1948 to George and Erma Draves. He was a man of hard work and deep love. As a young man, he proudly served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War.

He spent his life working hard in construction and retired from Hooper Construction. His hands were rough and tired from years of building things for others, but those same hands were always there to hold his family close.

In 1988, Marvin married Sharon (née Bachman). For 38 years, they built a life together centered around family, hard work, and the outdoors – especially hunting, fishing, and camping. He was the king of the campfire at their second home in the Wisconsin Dells, always ready with a joke or a wink that could make anyone laugh, even on their worst day.

Now, the woods he loved are still. The chair by the fire is empty, and the house feels far too big without his voice. The jokes he used to tell are silent now, and the silence is the hardest part.

Marvin is survived by his wife, Sharon Draves; his son, Richard Draves (fiancée Robin Paolino); and his stepson, Jared Bachman (long-term partner Nicole Olsen). He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren: Alexis Marie Draves, Tyler Michael Draves, Chase Jayden Draves, London Olivia Draves, Evan Gerald Bachman, Kaelyn Ryan Bachman, Elizabeth Marie Ehsan (née Holladay), Madison Olivia Smith, and Evan William Smith; one great grandchild, Aman Ehsan; sisters Judy Madison and Betty Booth and their families; brother-in-law Ralph Entringer; as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Marvin was preceded in death by his parents, sister-in-law Barbara Entringer, nephew Ryan Entringer, and mother-in-law Mary “Fran” Bachman.

Marvin will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his love of the outdoors, and the many memories shared with those who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

SERVICES: Marvin’s family invites friends and relatives to a time of visitation on Friday, March 13, 2026 at Zacherl Funeral Home from 3:00 PM until 5:00 PM. A short memorial service followed by military honors will take place at 5:00 PM.