Marvis Irene (Parker) Carlson, formerly of Essex, Iowa passed away peacefully on November 17, 2013 at the age of 93 in Norman,
Oklahoma. She was born on Feb. 4, 1920 in Essex, Iowa to Clarence W. and Phoebe V. (Johnson) Parker.

Marvis graduated Essex High School and the American Business College in Omaha, Nebraska. She used her skills and worked for several local businesses.

She met the love of her life in high school and was united in marriage to Cecil J. Carlson on June 8, 1941. They raised three sons of which she was very proud.

Marvis and Cecil owned and operated three lumberyards in southwest Iowa. After selling the lumberyards, they moved to Tucson, Arizona where she obtained her realtor's license. Throughout her life she was active in the Evangelical Covenant Church in both Essex and Tucson. She taught Sunday school, played the piano, sang in the choir and participated in various women's' groups. Marvis also enjoyed playing golf and bowling. She continued to play golf up until a few years ago. Another favorite activity was genealogy. She spent countless hours researching, corresponding, traveling and documenting her family history. Marvis was able to trace her family history back to Sweden in the 1700's. She also enjoyed knitting and made numerous Afghans, scarves and sweaters for her family. Marvis enjoyed preparing delicious Swedish dishes, pies and cookies.

She is preceded in death by her parents and sister. Survivors include her husband, Cecil, of Norman, sons, Gerald Carlson and wife Barbra,
Gene Carlson and wife Kathy, Richard Carlson and wife Pat, her niece Carolyn Anderson, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers memorials to Salvation Army or charity of donors choice.