Marlin Don Ekstrom

Marlin Don Ekstrom, passed away at the Veteran’s Hospital in Salt Lake City, Utah on Christmas morning.

Marlin was born on Mother’s Day – May 10, 1952 to Robert Don and Dorothy Ann Ekstrom. He was raised and attended schools in Roy, Utah where he enjoyed participating in sports and Boy Scouts. He entered the military as a member of the Marine Corp. He served in Vietnam. Due to being permanently injured while serving his country, he lived his adult life as a quadriplegic.

Marlin met Jacqueline Cain while serving as a Marine in California. They were married and made California their home. Although they later divorced, she remained the one true love of his life.

Marlin’s remarkable intellectual and creative abilities along with persistence and charm more than compensated for the physical limitations he faced. He truly lived an amazing life.

Marlin attended and graduated from Weber State University with honors. He loved music, art, fast cars and faster horses. He owned and raced many horses on both Cutter Teams and Flat track. His eyes always sparkled while watching his horses succeed.

Marlin is survived by his parents Robert Don and Dorothy Ann Ekstrom of Roy, UT; Diana (Allan) Karras of Roy, UT; Carleen (Norton) Thurgood of Richmond, UT; Julia Hanna of Roy, UT; Lewis (Terril) Ekstrom of West Haven, UT; Jennifer Ekstrom (Troy) Brown of Smithfield, UT.

We would like to give special thanks to the many Care-givers and Personal assistants who worked selflessly during Marlin’s many difficult times. There were also many very close long-term friends and caring neighbors who shared the special times of their lives with him. He appreciated every one of you.

Love You Long Time Big Brother!

Please join us for a Graveside Memorial service to be held in Marlin’s honor at 11:00 AM on Saturday, June 10, 2017 at the Malad, Idaho City Cemetery; 59 Bannock Street, Malad City, ID 83252. Condolences may be sent be sent to the family at allenmortuaries.net