Marvin Garabedian

August 3, 1937 – August 18, 2026

Marvin Garabedian, 89, of Fresno, California, passed away on August 18, 2026, shortly after celebrating his 89th birthday. He leaves behind a life defined by devotion to his family, service to his community, and an appreciation for craftsmanship and the things he loved.

Marvin was born on August 3, 1937, in San Francisco to Leo and Roxy Garabedian. His family later moved to Madera, where his father farmed. As a young man, Marvin took on the responsibility of running the family farm before eventually beginning a new chapter in his life working for Aerojet General in its solid rocket testing division.

Marvin later entered the insurance industry, where he built a career spanning more than 30 years as an insurance claims adjuster, specializing in complex, multimillion-dollar claims throughout the 13 western states. His careful judgment and attention to detail served him well throughout his career.

Marvin also had a deep commitment to public service. For 20 years, he proudly served with the Fresno County Sheriff's Office Reserve Unit, ultimately attaining the rank of Captain. His years of service reflected principles that were central to the way Marvin lived his life: honesty, integrity, responsibility, and doing what was right.

But of all the roles Marvin held throughout his life, none was more important to him than that of husband and father. Family always came first.

Marvin met the love of his life, Leanna, after they were introduced by Marvin's lifelong friend Bobby Emerzian, affectionately known to the family as “Uncle Bobby.” Marvin and Leanna married on September 11, 1965, at Pilgrim Armenian Congregational Church and went on to share 61 years of marriage. Together they built a life centered around family, companionship, and countless experiences shared over more than six decades.

Marvin and Leanna especially loved traveling together, with Europe holding a special place among their many travels.

Marvin spent the majority of his adult life in Fresno. Outside of his career and public service, he was an enthusiastic collector and a man who deeply appreciated craftsmanship. He became a knowledgeable collector and skilled builder and restorer of both antique and modern firearms.

He also had a lifelong passion for classic cars. Marvin enjoyed buying, restoring, and selling them, and he had a particular love for the 1932 Ford street rod. His interests reflected his meticulous nature and his appreciation for history, mechanics, craftsmanship, and the satisfaction of doing something the right way. These were qualities he valued throughout his life and passed along to his son.

Marvin is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Leanna Garabedian; his son, Evan Garabedian, and daughter-in-law, Amanda Garabedian; his nephew Kevin Garabedian and Kevin's wife, Colonel Gina Garabedian, U.S. Army (Ret.); and his nephew Todd Garabedian, an attorney and Ph.D., and Todd's wife, Carol, who also holds a Ph.D. Marvin is also survived by Jarret Benov, Undersheriff of Amador County, whom Marvin loved and regarded as a son.

Marvin was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Roxy Garabedian, and his brother, Ron Garabedian, who passed away on September 6, 2023.

Marvin lived 89 years filled with family, service, hard work, travel, craftsmanship, and experiences that became a lifetime of stories and memories. His accomplishments were many, but the measure of Marvin's life was never simply what he did. It was the principles by which he lived and the people he loved.

He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a great family man. His family always came first. The honesty, integrity, good judgment, and sense of responsibility that guided Marvin throughout his life will remain an enduring part of the legacy he leaves behind.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by those who were fortunate enough to know and love him.

Funeral Services

September 2, 2026 @ 11:30am

Memorial Service & Luncheon

Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church 2226 E Cesar Chavez Blvd, Fresno, CA 93721