In Memoriam: Michael Marn

A faculty member in the School of Communication, Journalism and Media is remembered for a big personality and a big sense of humor.

Michael Francis Marn, 72, died April 29 in Grand Rapids.

Marn taught for years in the advertising program of the College of the Arts & Media. There, he developed a reputation for teaching a subject he loved with zeal.

“He enjoyed sharing his passion for advertising with his students and they returned his energy,” said colleague Jim Wojcik. “He also established a successful advertising alumni board of former students to help the program stay current with new trends.”

Marn was also known for his quick, infectious wit.

“Mike was one of the most creative people I knew,” Wojcik said. “He also had a quick wit and had the ability to leave people feeling happier after being around him.

His outgoing personality was infectious. We have lost a wonderful person.”

Before coming to CMU, Marn built a career working as an advertising executive and consultant with firms in Chicago and Grand Rapids. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Northwestern University – Chicago.

Outside of work, Marn loved betting pretend winnings on Final Jeopardy, playing golf and listening to NPR and music. John Prine was a particular favorite of his. He also loved all things Cleveland and Northwestern University sports.

He did it all with a larger-than-life sense of humor.

“(Marn) had an unrivaled skill for spreading smiles,” said his online obituary. “If you knew (Marn), you laughed with (Marn).”

He was born Sept. 27, 1951, to Frank and Grace (Calhoun) Marn in Cleveland.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years Suzanne Marn; son, Matthew Francis (Rachel) Marn, son, Kevin (Megan) Marn; three grandchildren, Sage Marn, Noah Marn, Riley Marn; brother, Donald (Patricia) Marn.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Bill Marn, sister, Betty Kortan, sister, Gale Marn; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, David and Virginia Burns.

Visitation is Saturday, May 11, at 6 p.m. at the Pederson Funeral Home in Rockford.

People wishing to make a memorial contribution can donate to the Old Friends Senior Dog Sanctuary, 765 Nonaville Road, Mt. Juliet, TN 37122.