Marvin Erick Wahlstrom

On December 6th, we unexpectedly said farewell to Marvin "Marv" Wahlstrom. He was 79.5 and lived life to the fullest. So, this obituary is a bit on the detailed side—definitely not what Marv would have done. If it were up to him, you’d just get the basics.

Marv was a prolific walker, a pub-hopping socialite, a superstar uncle, and the kind of guy who was content with the world. A teddy bear of a man with the biggest, kindest heart—unless you tried to rip him off. Then, well, good luck to you! His graciousness was unmatched, always making you feel like a celebrity with his incredible hospitality. He did everything in his own signature "Marvin" way, and you couldn’t convince him otherwise. He was stubborn like that.

In some ways, Marv was hard to define, probably because he was a fascinating blend of contradictions: quiet and reserved, yet drawn to where the action was; incredibly generous and frugal in so many ways; his presence was welcoming, yet there was a hint of mystery about him, with glimpses of his personality revealed through a playful smirk, clever quip, and charming chuckle. While deeply connected to his family and chosen circle, he carried an undeniable independence in the way he moved through life.

Marv was born on July 14, 1945, in a small town in Northern Alberta to Erick “Gunnar” and Viola Wahlstrom. Growing up with his brothers, Merlin and Allan, he was the jolliest of the three. But don’t let that lightheartedness fool you—he was sharp and determined. He was the kind of guy who made sure any project was done with precision and high standards. And when (not if) Allan decided to bail out of any task 95% of the way through, you could bet Marv would swoop in as the capable older brother and close it out like a champion.

Then there was Gloria, who was like a sister to Marv. Did he ever love to tease her! When the fellas came around trying to win her heart (and there were plenty—because let’s be real, Gloria gives off major Audrey Hepburn vibes), Marv was unimpressed. That is, until he met Walter “Wally.” With his dashing charm and killer smile, Marv was absolutely gobsmacked. To him, Walter was the real deal. The perfect match. Fast forward a few years, and Walter wasn’t just Gloria’s husband; he became Marv’s honorary brother and lifelong mixtape buddy.

Always on the move, Marv’s travels took him across the globe. He spent five years teaching mathematics at Sydney Girls High School in Australia. Afterward, he made his way back to Alberta via the Trans-Siberian Railway, crossing Russia into Europe. Marv also volunteered with Habitat for Humanity in South America, did homestays with local families in various countries to fully immerse himself in their daily lives, and reconnected with friends around the world. He explored the vibrant music scenes in Nashville and cherished many happy visits to the Canmore crew (Wally, Gloria, Allan, and Denise) in the Rocky Mountains.

“When’s Uncle Marv visiting?!” “How’s Marv?” “Is Marv coming on the family vacation with us too?!” Marv was an instant hit with his nieces and nephews—Laura, Scott, Michael, and Erika. He was the kind of uncle who’d happily do his niece’s hair, cheer alongside you at soccer and baseball games, and always have your back when it really mattered. He wouldn’t think twice about throwing himself in harm’s way to protect you. Gift-giving? Marv had it down to an art—always picking out something that was intentional and unique to you. He was remarkable like that.

Marv was a brotherly figure to Allan’s wife Denise, the "Belanger girls," and their husbands—a crew that could match his fun-loving wit. He was a ladies' man. His irresistible pull was a gentle poke of affection to your arm and a unique shyness that made him all the more endearing. He adored these ladies, and they adored having him over for Christmas dinners and other family gatherings.

In his career, Marv was a mathematics teacher for close to a decade (he had a degree from the University of Alberta) turned Networking Specialist, designing and maintaining the University of Toronto’s digital infrastructure for 25+ years. He came from a family of educators and humanitarians and never ventured too far from that calling. Having not owned a vehicle since the early 2000s (and only three in his lifetime), he walked to and from work every day in downtown Toronto, often walking fast (really fast!) bee-lining it to his favorite pubs and cafes that were the center of his social life. When inspired, he wound down with his guitar at home and strummed a Chet Atkins tune.

Marv loved learning Spanish, dim sum, Viola’s bread pudding, swapping recipes, and keeping up with the latest global events.

We honor the lessons he taught us—to live true to ourselves, savor the simple things, and not take life too seriously. May he rest in peace.

Cheers to you, Marv—we love you, always!

In honor of Marv, the family invites you to gather with your favorite people, enjoy a great meal, raise a glass, and spread an act of kindness in his memory.

Marvin is survived by his brother Allan (Denise), nieces Laura, Erika (Chris), and Hilja, nephew Michael (Pamela), many great-nieces and great-nephews, and loving family in Alberta, BC, and Ontario. He is predeceased by his parents Gunnar and Viola, older brother Merlin, sister-in-law Wanda, and nephew Scott, and his chosen family Wally and Monique (Belanger sister).

He had many friends who were dear to him, especially his friends in Toronto, Gloria, Michael (Cathy), the Belanger girls: Rita (Gabrielle), Linda (John), Suzanne (Dermot), Dianne, and many others across the globe.

In keeping with Marvin’s wishes, there will be no formal service. His family will celebrate Marv at some of his favorite places in Toronto, then in Alberta at a later date.