Marvin J. Kontney
March 23, 1947 - September 13, 2026
Obituary
MADISON - Marvin Kontney, 79, passed away peacefully on September 13, 2026, in Madison, Wis., surrounded by his family.
Marv was born to Albin and Bernice Kontney on March 23, 1947, in a farmhouse in Polonia, Wis. He graduated from Stevens Point Area Senior High School where he played baseball. From those early Wisconsin roots, he built a life defined by family, service, hard work, craftsmanship, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors.
A proud Vietnam veteran, Marv served in the United States Air Force from 1966 to 1970 and fought in Vietnam during the Tet Offensive. His service to his country was an important part of his life.
After graduating from MATC with a degree in electronics, Marv spent 30 years working for the University of Wisconsin-Madison in the Chemistry Department, where he specialized in nuclear magnetic resonance systems. His career reflected his remarkable technical ability, curiosity, and skill for understanding how things worked.
That same talent was evident in his woodworking. Marv was a proficient woodworker who could turn his skill, patience and attention to detail into beautiful and lasting pieces-most memorably making cribs and beds for all his grandchildren. His craftsmanship will remain a tangible reminder of him for generations to come.
Marv found happiness outdoors, enjoying his passions for fishing, hunting and golf. He was a member of two fishing clubs and especially cherished sharing his love of fishing through his years volunteering with Fishing Has No Boundaries, where he taught and assisted children with disabilities. Golf was another favorite pastime and he proudly recorded two hole-in-ones during his years on the course. Marv treasured these experiences and friendships that made these pursuits so meaningful.
Above all, Marv was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Sue; his daughters, Joni Magestro (Troy) and Mara Rodriguez (Craig); and his grandchildren, Tyler Magestro, Kylie Magestro and Vaughn Rodriguez; his sisters, Germaine Stanislawski (Felix) and Nancy Sabota; his mother-in-law, Margaret Arneson; his sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Mary Veith (Bill), Mark Arneson and John Arneson (Darlene); and many special nephews and nieces.
Marv was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Bonnie Zalewski; his sister-in-law, Beverly Nelson; and his brothers-in-law, Don Sabota and Bill Nelson.
Marv leaves behind a life well lived and a legacy found not only in his service and accomplishments, but in the family he loved, the things he built with his own hands, and the countless memories made outdoors with those who knew him best. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A private burial service will be held for family. A celebration of life is planned for family and friends at THE ESSEN HAUS, 514 E. Wilson St., Madison, from 12 noon until 4 p.m. on Saturday, October 10, 2026.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Marv’s name to the Madison VA Hospital, 2500 Overlook Terrace, Madison, WI 53705 or the VFW Post 7591, 301 Cottage Grove Road, Madison, WI 53716. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.
Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420