Marvin L. Kellum
June 23, 1952 - February 04, 2023
Service: Service and interment private.
Marv Kellum passed away at home on Saturday, February 4, 2023, surrounded by family and lifted up in so much love. He had a long battle with digestive and multiple myeloma cancers that he fought hard to the very end.
His attending oncologists always called him a “warrior.”
Marv was born June 23, 1952, in Topeka, Kansas where he was known as “Buddy”. He went to LeCompton High School where he played 8-man football, played basketball and ran track, and then onto Wichita State University. After a successful collegiate career playing defense at Wichita State, Marv signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers as an undrafted free agent in 1974 where he eventually became a part of the Steelers first 2 World Championships, Super Bowls IX & X. Marv was most widely known for a key fumble recovery in Super Bowl IX against the Minnesota Vikings, scooping up the ball on the opening kickoff of the second half. The Steelers would go on to win 16-6, capturing the first of four world championships in six seasons. Marv played three seasons for the Steelers and one for the St. Louis Cardinals before retiring and entering the Carpenters Union in 1977.
Marv spent almost 35 years as a carpenter, specifically with the last 20 years in Local Union 211 and with MBM Contracting, Inc. before retiring a second time at 59 years old.
Marv would go on to spend his retirement years with his family, well known for being “Pap” and “Pop” a silly, kind-hearted, and present grandfather. Marv could be found at a local youth field on any given day when he wasn’t golfing, usually the first in line at the snack bar. Marv is a man of many talents and has stories and experiences that most couldn’t rival in a lifetime of trying, however, if you knew him you also knew that he was most proud of all his grandchildren and that is evident in his unwavering and unconditional love.
Marv has also spent his retirement raising awareness and fundraising for JDRF, a charity close to his heart since his oldest grandson, Braden, was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at age 4, along with supporting countless other charities and fundraisers.
Marv was predeceased by his parents, C. W. “Bud” Kellum and Laura Kellum. He is survived by his wife Sandra Kellum (Birsic); their oldest son, Wesley Kellum and his children Braden and Nolan with their mother Kasey; and his youngest son Matthew Kellum with his wife Melissa and their children Penelope and Beau. He is also survived by his beloved siblings, Wayne Kellum (Bobbi), Kenneth Kellum (Helen), Karen Ice (Richard) and many loving nieces and nephews from Pittsburgh to Kansas.
Marv was such an incredible man, that all who were lucky enough to know him understand the magnitude of this loss. When you spoke to Marv you knew you were talking to someone special. Above all else in his life, Marv was a devoted, loving and supportive husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and cousin as well as a friend and neighbor to many. Everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him will be mourning this wonderful man for years to come.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to Hillman Cancer Center or Western PA Chapter of JDRF are welcomed.
Service and interment private.
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I met Marv back in the early 80’s. He worked across the street from me. I recently had the honor of meeting one of his grandson’s in school who had “Kellum” on the back of his football shirt. He told me Marv was his pap. Im so sorry to hear of his passing. I just found out. Prayers of comfort to every memeber of his family. He was too young…
Marv was a great guy. I got to know him when he came up to hunting camp every year. He also helped me with a fundraiser for my son’s hockey team. He was always willing to help and was a great example for others to emulate. Condolences to family. I’m honored to have known Marv.
Sorry to hear the news . I will miss talking to him on the back deck or when we were cutting grass.
Again, sorry for your loss
Pam and Bill Bodak
Marv , 2014 I started a Steelers backers group in Kent Ohio , I asked you if you can come to our pig roast / fundraiser for Relay For Life and without hesitation you said yes ! Marv it was a great day n you took the time to sign autographs for everyone an shared your SB ring with the kids . Marv you will be missed n never forgotten my friend. Thank you for everything. Rest in peace
I have had the privilege of calling Marv my friend for more than 15 years. As a member of Butler County Labor Council we started a “Tailgate Charity Golf Open” to honor our beloved Pittsburgh Steelers and raise money for children’s programs in Butler County. Being the amazing, caring and giving man that Marv was, he was beside and behind us for every Tailgate! He will always be missed and never forgotten.
Marv was my Buddy, or if I were from Kansas, I’d say, Buddy was my Marv. Being buddies, we helped each other with never ending home repairs. We took a weekend to replace his garage roof. We were working along, and Marv said to me, (using my Marv imitation voice), “hey Joe, why don’t we shift the ladder over here, that would be more better.” I paused, and thought ‘more better’, who says that? Is that like a Kansas thing? Then I thought, Marv says that. It was endearing, and I thought what a genuine, simple and uncomplicated Buddy I have! Meanwhile, our dear Sandy was in the kitchen likely thinking the exact opposite. Anyway, I know this, anyone who had the ultimate pleasure to know Marv, their lives were more better. I believe in an Almighty, all Merciful , and all Loving God, Abba. So I know that our Buddy, our Marv is in ‘more better’ place. With life being so short, we his family and friends will see him in the time that it took his kind eyes to twinkle as he smiled. See ya more soon, Buddy!
My heartfelt sympathies to the entire Kellum family. Buddy will be greatly missed by many of us. He was a great classmate, friend, and neighbor. I have many great memories of Buddy as we grew up and in the years that followed.
One afternoon when we were kids, we were talking and goofing around in the woods about halfway between our houses when his mom called out, in a voice strong enough to carry across the fields, “Marvin Lee, time to come home”. And so he has. See you later, Buddy.
Sandy and Family we are deeply sorry for your loss, Our memories are from the Valley View Days. Sandy you probably remember my Mom as Sally. Our Prayers are with you.
Marv you will be missed by many. You were a great neighbor. Always willing to help anyone. RIP
Marv was a very caring and giving man. When asked he wholehearted joined with Butler County Labor Council as we created “The Tailgate Charity Open”. Marv was there at its inaugural event 17 years ago and every year bringing with him Coach Red Uram, Robin Cole, Frank Thomas and others to raise money for various Childrens charities. Marv you will be greatly missed but never forgotten.
I am sorry of the passing of Marv. He was a good man and friend that I did not spend enough time with. He treated my son’s Brian and Kevin great. My heart is heavy for Sandy,Wes and Matt and your families.-
Keeping Sandy and all the family in our hearts at this sad time. Remembering Marv’s big heart and fun loving ways as a young Dad in our neighborhood.
Our deepest sympathy
Marty and Richard Stoneberg
Our deepest sympathies. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. One of the best neighbors we ever had.
So saddened to learn of Marvin’s passing. Such great memories of my good friend and our time together at Wichita State. He played the games, I was fortunate to get to report on them. Marvin, Ted Weglarz, Wayne Haynes and I had special times. Will miss you #18.
So sorry to hear about Marv. I worked with him at several hospitals, and he was such a humble and caring person to everyone around him. His family is a reflection of what a fantastic man and father he was. Rest in peace, you will be missed 😢
Marv was the very definition of humility. I had the privilege of meeting him through coaching his son in youth football. He became a friend. He and his family were a blessing to be around. My deepest heartfelt sympathy to all of you. My the Lord be with you and heal your hearts.
My condolences to Sandy and sons. Marv was such a caring and giving person, and did it with humility and grace. The North Hills community was proud to have him as on of our own.
I am saddened to here of Marv’s passing. He was the best co-worker and friend you could ask for. You have my deepest sympathy
Our memories go back to West View/Ross baseball and North Hills Youth football. Marv was our sons coach. He gave his time, commitment and talents. He was tough but instilled a winning spirit to everyone around him. He made each boy feel special. He brought one of his Super Bowl rings to the field and each boy tried it on. His motivation and encouragement developed his teams into responsible and respectful adults. Rest In Peace, Coach Marv. Our prayers and sympathy to Sandy, Wes, Matt and grandchildren. May your memories bring you comfort during this difficult time.
Our deepest sympathy on Marvin passing. Remembering Marvin as a great competitor, team member from the WSU’s days. We wish for God Blessing for Marvin and His Care for family and friends.
Lecompton Kansas mourns the loss of our hometown hero and Lecompton Legend. Prayers and sympathy to the entire Kellum family. He was truly loved here in his home town. So many great memories of his time here in Lecompton. God Bless!!
Sandy I am so sorry to hear of Marv’s passing. You and the boys were so blessed to have such a wonderful man in your lives. He was such a kind man to everyone including me. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Love Joan
At a loss. As a teammate and friend from Wichita State I am truly saddened to hear of Marvin’s passing. A true friend and quite the competitor. Many fine memories of my friend. God bless him.
My thoughts and prayers to family and friends.
Ray Burford
My deepest sympathy to your family.Marv was the best co-worker and friend you could ask for. When I told him I was going to do a golf outing fundraiser he was all in. He brought along coach Paul Uram,Ray Mathew, Frank Thomas and Rich Minto. Butler . Semper Fi my friend
To Marv’s entire family, we at Union Orthotics & Prosthetics Co. send you our heartfelt sympathy at this difficult time. Marv was the cog in the wheel when we started our charity golf outing. He will be remembered for his unselfish work and dedication to making this event such a success. Personally, it was an honor to work with him and to call him a friend. He will be greatly missed and he will always be remembered. Unending prayers to each of you….God Bless!
Todd Manley
We are so sorry for your loss. Marv will be greatly missed by us and his little buddy Jackson.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Melissa
I am so sorry to hear this news. You and the family have my deepest condolences. I will continue to keep you all in my prayers.
Love you
Tina Wingard
Sandi,
So sorry to hear about Marv. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Love, Sherry
Sandy so sorry you have my deepest sympathy marv was a great neighbor an friend he
Marv truly was one of the best people I’ve ever known. When you met him, you knew you were meeting someone special, so genuinely warm and kind. I feel fortunate to have known him. My deepest heartfelt sympathy to Sandy, Wes & Matt for his loss.
I am so sorry to hear this news. He was a classmate and share fond memories of those days. May you be comforted and find peace in the coming days. Sending condolences to each of you.