Obituary: Marvin “Marv” E. Fraker

Marvin “Marv” E. Fraker of Jackson, Michigan, age 87, died Monday, October 5, 2020 at Arbor Manor in Spring Arbor, MI. He was born July 8, 1933 in Deerfield MI to Irvin and Pearl (Weber) Fraker. He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister Doris, two brothers Warren and Calvin, and a step-sister, Gwen (Dave) Blackmer.

He married Beatrice Baker on August 3, 1957. She survives along with four sons: James (Marcella)-Escondido, CA, Gerald (Bobbie)-Apex, NC, Donald (MaryJane)-Grand Rapids, MI and Daniel (Janet)-Caledonia, IL. Eight grandchildren: Pamela, Kimberly; Tanya, Joel; David; Sarah, Amy and Elliot. Five great-grandchildren: Tomás; Payton, Cali; Brent & Elizabeth. One step-brother Bruce Boice (Carol), and one step-sister, Phyllis Dick. Several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Marv graduated from Ann Arbor High School in 1952. He was All-State in both football and wrestling. This earned him an athletic scholarship to Michigan State University where he played football for one season. After one semester at Michigan State University, he decided to return home to become a plumber. He received his journeyman’s plumbing license in 1957 and his Master plumbing license in 1970. Marv owned Fraker Plumbing Inc. from 1971-1985. He was a member of Plumbers/Pipefitters UA Local 190 for over 66 years.

Marv was strong as a bull, but gentle as a lamb. Marv was very active in his church. He was a trustee on the church board for many years at the Southwest Church of the Nazarene in Gregory MI. He was also the general contractor for his church, its parsonage and years later an addition to the church. If a job needed to be done at his church, he did it. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Award by his church. Highlights of his life were his family, especially his grandchildren, great-grandchildren and serving his Lord.

Funeral services will be held Friday, Oct. 9, 2020 at the Chelsea Church of the Nazarene, 12126 Jackson Rd, Dexter Twp, MI 48130 with the burial following at Washtenong Memorial Park in Ann Arbor. A viewing will be held Thursday, Oct. 8 at Cole Funeral Chapel, 214 E. Middle St. Chelsea, MI. 48118. Due to COVID restrictions, please call Cole Funeral Chapel at 734-475-1551 to schedule a time for viewing or reserve a spot at the funeral. Donations may be made to SouthWest Church of the Nazarene, 14555 Holmes Road, Gregory, MI 48137.