For Jodi Lenz the sorrow is as fresh today as it was four years ago. Then, she had to contend with the sudden loss of her husband Marvin. Now, she has to carry on and be the support for their two young children as they continue to live life without him.

“We miss him every day,” says Jodi. “We treasure the memories of our time shared together.”

A man who was good-natured, unassuming, and devoted to family and friends alike, Marvin Lenz is still missed by all who knew him. However, thanks to the efforts of two close friends, Marvin leaves behind a legacy that will benefit students at the University of the Fraser Valley for years to come.

Wayne Baier and Remmert Hinlopen met Marvin years ago while staying active — they all played squash together. What started as friendly competition grew into friendship and after Marvin passed away, a determination to honour their lost comrade. Marvin was an active volunteer and Rotarian. In recognition of Marvin and his commitment to community, the two friends suggested an endowed bursary at UFV as the best way to pay tribute.

When deciding on the criteria for the award, Baier and Hinlopen were immediately struck by Jodi’s own situation — that of a single mother with two small children. Thus, the Marvin Lenz Memorial Endowment Bursary will be available to any UFV student, but preference will be given to a single parent from Chilliwack.

The endowment currently stands at $14,000, a testament to the community’s desire to pay tribute to Marvin. Jodi, however, feels that in today’s economy the $500 award that the fund will generate annually is not quite enough for a single parent who is trying to cover university expenses. Grateful as she and Marvin’s friends are for the donations received so far, they know that a larger award will make a greater difference in the lives of its recipients. They are pushing for a new goal of $25,000, which will result in a $1,000 annual award.

We ask that you consider making a gift to the Marvin Lenz Memorial Endowment Bursary. Please note that any donation to UFV is eligible for a tax receipt for the full gift amount. You can make an on-line gift by visiting our Donate Now page to contribute to Marvin’s fund.