Marvin Neil Van Soest

Marvin Neil Van Soest, 79, husband, father, “Popi,” son of God, and avid fan of Southern Gospel music, from Carlsbad, NM went home to his Savior on Monday, December 25, 2023, in Lubbock, TX. Marvin was born on October 16, 1944, in Winamac, IN to Maurice and Thelma Van Soest. He was the fourth child of a large family.

Visitation is scheduled from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM Wednesday, January 3, 2024, at Denton-Wood Funeral Home. Celebration of Life Service is scheduled for 10:30 AM Thursday, January 4, 2024, at the Church Street Church of the Nazarene with Pastors Ryan and Serina Nelson officiating.

Growing up in a hardworking farming family in Indiana and Colorado, Marvin enjoyed the few breaks from farming to shoot hoops with his brother or even by himself and attend church.  Marvin’s love for music started young, with many family and friend ensembles, quartets, and trios.  His love of music led him to Pasadena College in California where he was able to be a part of a large choir.  He received his degree in History and met the love of his life, Kathy Pardue.  Marvin and Kathy were married in 1970 and began their family in 1972.  They had three wonderful sons.  After teaching in both California and Colorado Marvin was offered a job in Loving, NM to be the Farm and Ranch Manager at Pardue Farms, the Pardue family business. 

Carlsbad quickly became their home.  Marvin was very involved in the community from coaching his son’s sports, to Scoutmaster, to boards and leadership positions in his local church and at the district level.  Marvin was the Music/Choir Director at Church Street Church of the Nazarene for over 39 years.  His faithful service ushered believers into God’s presence.

Marvin truly enjoyed being a husband, father and “Popi”.  Aside from his Christian walk, family was his highest priority. From numerous Bronco games with his sons and grandsons to allowing his precious granddaughters to pamper him at their homemade “spa,” Marvin loved life and embraced each opportunity with family.  Marvin and Kathy were happily married for 53 years that were full of laughter and love.

Marvin was preceded in death by his father, Maurice Van Soest; mother, Thelma (Hayden) Van Soest; and two sisters, Marlene Chatman and Leona Van Soest.

Marvin is survived by his loving wife, Kathryn (Pardue) Van Soest of Carlsbad, NM; three sons: Gregory Van Soest and wife, Delaina of Carlsbad, NM; Douglas Van Soest and wife, Andrea of Murrieta, CA; and Chad Van Soest and wife, Brittany of Littleton, CO; five grandchildren, Adley, Reagan, Weston, Brenna, and Owen; four siblings: Raymond Van Soest and wife, Kathleen of Atmore, AL; Dean Van Soest and wife, Anita of Greeley, CO; Reta Selanders of Arvada, CO; and Ralph Van Soest and wife, Kathi of Greeley, CO; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In lieu of flowers, would you consider donating, in Marvin’s name, to Bonita Park Nazarene Camp, Angus NM or to Church Street Church of the Nazarene, Carlsbad NM.

Condolences may be expressed online at dentonwood.com