Marven Ellis Springer born March 3, 1925 in Chatham, NB passed away February 5, 2011 in St. John, NB. Marven began his working life pulling groceries in his wagon during the depression for 5 cents per week. At 18 years 3 months old, Marven, along with two of his brothers, John and Charles landed on Juno Beach, Nan Sector in Normandy France on June 6, 1944 with the North Shore New Brunswick Reg't. Marven made it 150 meters up the beach and got wounded in the forehead and leg by shrapnel. He went to England to recover then was sent back to Europe where he was wounded in Holland. For Marven, WWII was over. Marven often joked "they tried to kill me twice" Besides his medals (which he jokingly referred to as his junk) the Book "The Scarlett Dawn" by Father Hickey was his prized possession and he referred to it often. Perhaps his favorite part was the capture of "The Tallest German" At the time of his death, he had that picture in his room. In 1948 he started his family and was the proud father of 12 children. In 1950 he went to war in Korea where he fought for 3 years. Upon his return, he served another 20 years at CFB Gagetown. This time saw a peacekeeping mission to Cyprus and a growing family. He was predeceased by his parents Francis (WWI veteran) and Laura. the mother of his children Catherine Matchett, brothers, William, George, Frank, Charles, Robert and sisters Pearl Mary and Ella, sons Robert, Edward, Donald and Bruce. Marven is survived by his brother Jack, sons Charles (Linda), Frank (Nancy), Marvin and Richard (Laura) daughters Deborah (Gilbert), Heather, Christine (Jim) and Barbara (Ed) many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Dad was very proud that he and five of his brothers all served in battle during WWII and all came home. When Barbara and Ed went to the 65th Anniversary of the D-Day landing, Marven laughed and said "you're going to the beach where I was lying there dying". He asked us to see if the Canada House was still there. That was the first thing he saw as he left the landing craft. His sense of humor never left him. The battle is over for a proud soldier, he has gone and is reunited with his comrades who went before. Dad was a life ling member of The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 93 past president of The Lions Club and the most believable Santa Claus to all the children in our neighborhood. The family would like to thank the staff at the Ridgewood Veterans Unit in St. John, NB for their loving care of our Dad. Also, to his friend Jack Mosher for always being there for Marven. To all his comrades at Branch 93, Thank you and God Bless
Sleep Well Brave Soldier