Alvin Richard "Al" Marx

ALVIN RICHARD "AL" MARX Graveside services for Cortez resident Alvin Richard "Al" Marx, a man who appreciated the simple things in life, will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, December 13 at Arriola Cemetery. Officiating will be Alvin's son, Richard Marx. Alvin was born May 3, 1922, at the stage station in Names Hill, Wyo. to John and Mary Marx. He passed away at his home, surrounded by his family, on Wednesday, December 10, 2008, after a long, happy life and a short illness. Alvin was 86 years old. John and Mary Marx, along with their three older children had traveled from Falls City, Neb. in a covered wagon to homestead on the Green River in LaBarge, Wyo. The family was raised with hard work and lean times, raising hay, tending the animals and rounding-up wild horses. Alvin appreciated a good horse and a comfortable pair of boots. Alvin joined the Army, serving his country for four years, spending a tour of duty in Korea. Upon returning home from the service, he married Betty Louise Harmison on November 8, 1947. Family was important to Alvin. He and Betty devoted their life to raising their three children, and later, enjoyed spending time with their grandchildren and great grandchildren. Alvin was a modest man who understood the value of hard work and a dollar. He enjoyed the outdoors, dancing, and was an avid baseball fan. Alvin was also a dedicated employee, working in the oilfields for Texaco for 42 years, and retiring in 1986. Alvin never forgot his roots. Upon retiring, he and Betty bought a small piece of property where he raised hay to feed his cows, horses and other livestock. The summer before his death, he was still the head mechanic for the farm equipment and would often be seen with a posthole digger and a pair of fencing pliers. Surviving Alvin are his wife of 61 years, Betty Marx of Cortez; his son, Alvin Richard Marx Jr. and wife, Mette of Farson, Wyo.; his two daughters, Vickie Martinez and husband, Earl, and Cathy Marx and husband, Ron Barker of Cortez. He is also survived by his brother, Erwin Marx and wife, Toody; his sister, Dorothy McGinnis; 11 grandchildren; 17 great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceding Alvin in death were his parents; three brothers; and three sisters.