Marvin Maten, Jr.
1937 - 2018Beloved patriarch,Marvin Allen “Al” Maten Jr,
went home to be with his precious Lord on
Tuesday, March 13, 2018.
Born in Detroit on November 23, 1937 to
Marvin and Louise (Warren) Maten, with
his 2 older sisters, Nona and Eileen.
Al was loved and respected by many who had the pleasure of being part of
his life. He had a great many accomplishments that began at a very young
age. Al was a decorated member of the University of Michigan swim team,
they were National Champions in 1958 and 1959, during which he became
an All American in breaststroke, Al graduated from U of M in 1960 with
Bachelors in Engineering, His career began as a mechanical engineer with
Cadillac, In 1962 he went to Ford Motor Company where he used his
talents to design and implement safety features in automobiles. Al
continued his education and received a Master’s Degree in Business
Management from Michigan State University. Eventually he retired from
a decorated career at Ford in 1988, however, his passions and skills led
him to new opportunities, Al’s first, post-retirement job was becoming
Vice President and General Manager of Hedwin Corporation (Solvay
Automotive) which he did for 5 years. Next he took a position as General
Manager of Durables for the American Plastics Council, where he was
instrumental in conceptualizing and perfecting the recycling of durable
plastics. He also worked strategically on enhancing the recycling of
Automotive Plastics, In addition to his numerous accomplishments in the
automotive and plastic industries Al truly knew how to enjoy life and the
beauty that surrounds us. He had a passion for music that began with the
French Horn which followed him into college where he played in the
U of M Marching Band. He loved to sing with his big bass voice in the
church choir, gospel quartets or a gathering of friends around the piano.
When he finally retired, Al continued to enjoy his favorite activities with
his wife and best friend, Violet, taking every opportunity to run, water
ski and snowmobile
He is survived by:
his devoted wife, Violet (Nagy) of 28 years,
4 children: Thomas Maten (Aleigha) of Waterford,
Bonnie Sevakis (Paul) of New Hudson,
Allen Maten of Fenton,
Angela Dickey (Eric) of Rochester Hills, and
11 grandchildren who all love him dearly.
Al was preceded in death by his daughter, Debbie (1978),
parents, and sister Nona.
Memorial service will be held at North Country Baptist Church,
14392 M-68 Hwy., Millersburg, MI 49759 on Saturday, March 17, 2018
at 11:00 a.m.