Marvin L. Pugh "A Character of Character" 4/3/1912 ~ 8/25/2010
With his customary magical wink and wonderful smile, an extraordinary character of character left this world to take his place with the noble and great who have gone before, including his precious wife Kirksel and daughter Kay Lynne. Their circle is complete.Marvin Lynn Pugh peacefully passed away on August 25, 2010 at the age of 98. This man of stunning character and charisma was born in Salt Lake City, Utah on April 3, 1912 to Eva Mae Murphy Pugh and William Edward Pugh and was the third of eight children. Early experiences instilled in him an understanding that honor and character mattered, that leadership was about lifting and serving others and that life was to be a fun-filled adventure full of loving laughter. Covenants made led to a life of commitments kept and countless lives blessed. A natural athlete and leader he excelled in football, playing for the University of Utah from 1931-35. A true "U" man, the letter on his sweater marked him not only as an athlete but as a high-minded man and a gentleman. Marv had the heart of a champion, but his Kirksel held the keys to both heart and soul. Friendship led to courtship, which led to one of the most amazing, loving and committed partnerships the world has ever known. With his trademark flair, Marv created a stir when he proposed while Kirksel was in the hospital - saying she didn't have a chance to say no! It was the beginning of a truly remarkable and dynamic duo that rarely said no to each other and together said yes to every opportunity to serve and make a difference. They were married on August 28, 1937 in the Salt Lake Temple and were blessed with their beautiful and talented daughter Kay Lynne in 1949. They learned through experience that true character is forged in fiery trials and tempered in tragedy, but together came through it with the spiritual strength of fine steal and softened hearts refined as pure gold. Forever united and rarely more than a hand-clasp apart, they walked this life together for 72 years- Marv carefully, lovingly and beautifully escorting his Kirksel to the other side, then patiently enduring their brief separation. Character is never measured by titles, positions, honors or degrees, though Marv's would fill pages with his wide array of experience and achievements including bachelors and masters degrees from the University of Utah, military service, a storied career as an educator, counselor, coach and referee, a member of numerous boards and associations including Cottonwood Hospital and The American Cancer Society Utah Chapter among many, many others. His Church service was also legendary as a member of the General Board of the MIA, Counselor to two Bishops, Bishop, Stake President, Mission President of the Dublin, Ireland Mission, Counselor to the Salt Lake Temple President, Counselor to the Jordan River Temple President, Director of Temple Square and Sealer in the Jordan River Temple for 27 years. The hallmark of his service was his ability to connect with people, especially the youth. He made everyone feel they were the most important person in the room and that he was there just for them. The power of his character inspired others to improve their own character and no one ever left his presence without a grander vision of what they could become. No account of this character, Marv Pugh, would be complete without mention of what a character he truly was. A spellbinding storyteller with a seemingly photographic memory of every person he ever met, he was lightning fast with a quip or funny comment and was ever ready to conspire for a good gag or practical joke. The youth of his stake were surprised to learn that the person behind a string of pranks at a youth conference was none other than their Stake President, Marv Pugh. He was comfortable playing ball with children in Ireland, riding a tricycle, wearing a little girl's hat, teasing a teenager about dating, singing a silly song or simply playing around. Marv made an oasis in laughter that created a safe place where a person could set down their cares, feel the love of this great man and leave with a bounce in their step and hope in their heart. While his life may not be recorded in the history books, it is forever engraved on the hearts and minds of those he served. Just saying his name or thinking of him brings a smile, a chuckle and a desire to be better. In a day when many question the character of people and leaders, Marvin Pugh lived a life of covenants and commitments, showing that a character of character can make all the difference in the world- one person at a time. The power and influence of his character will continue for generations to come. Preceded in death by parents, spouse, daughter and sibling. Survived by nieces, nephews, Sister Betty, a generation of missionaries and countless friends. A viewing will be held on Tuesday, August 31, 2010 at Cottonwood Mortuary, 4670 S. Highland Dr. from 6-8 p.m. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, September 1, 2010 at 12 noon at the Holladay 27th Ward, 5450 S. Holladay Blvd. with a brief viewing an hour prior to services.