Marvin Abram Rich

Marvin Abram Rich passed away on Monday, August 12, 2019. Marvin was born on April 1, 1932 to Philip Rich and Bertha Krakower Rich in Houston, Texas. A proud graduate of the University of Texas, he was manager of the swimming team and received a letter from the team and was a member in the Texas Longhorns T-Association. Marvin worked in his family business, Phil Rich Fan Manufacturing Company, helping sell and distribute electric fans all over Texas and the country, before air conditioning was common. Following that, he worked for the Grolier Corporation, in the textbook division. Marvin was an active member and president of the Texas Jewish Historical Society, very involved with B'nai B'rith Texas, and, along with his brother Hershel, a member of the Houston Optimist Club. At ADL, the Anti-Defamation League, Marvin was an Honorary Life Member of the National Commission and was honored with a Centennial Citation from the Southwest Regional Board and as a Centennial Champion by ADL National. Marvin was dedicated to the Texas Democratic Party, serving as a precinct chair and delegate for President Obama at the 2012 National Democratic Convention. Fulfilling a lifetime dream, he attended the presidential inauguration of Bill Clinton. Appointed by Anne Richardson, Marvin served on the Texas State Library Association Board. He was also a board member of READ, promoting literacy. His passion for books was lifelong and was passed on to his children and grandchildren. Marvin thoroughly enjoyed food: discovering new gourmet restaurants all over the world, and cooking, especially gumbo and BBQ. He was a master with his smoking pit. He also enjoyed fishing, bowling, and traveling with family. Marvin was proud of all his grandchildren, with their educational accomplishments and their successful service in the Israeli Defense Forces. Marvin was preceded in death by his beloved son Kenneth Rich. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of sixty-four years, Shirley Mayer Rich, his son Bernard Rich and his two daughters Tova and Rachel Rich; and his daughter Elka Rich Poor and her husband David and their three children, Jonathan and fiancé Adena, Matthew, and Ilana. He has many nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, and great-great nieces and nephews, all of whom he loved dearly. In lieu of flowers donations in Marvin's honor may be made to the Jewish Family Service (JFSHouston.org) and ADL Southwest (Southwest.ADL.org)

Marvin Abram Rich

April 1, 1932 - August 12, 2019