Obituary of Marvin Compher

Marvin “Keen” Compher, Jr.

Keen Compher, (age 76)  died peacefully at home on  July 21 of ALS.  He was the beloved husband of Judith Marsch Compher for 36 years, and son of Louise Compher (age 102) and the late Marvin K. Compher, Sr.  He is also survived by brothers Vic (Charlene), Bill, Steve and Danny (Cindy) and nieces Heather, Amanda, Sarah and nephews Kevin and Cedar. Keen's Carpe Diem philosophy sustained him throughout his 50 month illness  and his courage and grace amazed all who knew him.  Keen was a graduate of Wake Forest (1964) and received his Ph. D. in Biology from The University of Virginia (1968). He was a professor of Biology and taught at College of Wooster, Chatham and Westminster College where he was pre-med advisor and first faculty advisor to Allies, Westminster's gay/straight alliance.  Keen's favorite student evaluation was "Keen is a masterful mentor, upholding the entire class in the palm of his hand."  He was a life-long student of the German language, a world traveler, a master gardener, a gourmet cook and an accomplished pianist.  Friends were his life's greatest treasure and he leaves a host of loving friends across the country and around the world.  A memorial service will take place at Calvary Episcopal Church on Saturday August 4 at 11 a.m. Contributions in Keen's memory may be made to The Pittsburgh Foundation, with LiveLikeLou in the “memo” line, and sent to The Pittsburgh Foundation c/o Lindsay Aroesty, 5 PPG Place, Suite 250, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 or Calvary Episcopal Church, 315 Shady Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15206.  Condolences may be left at www.mccabebrothers.com