Marvin L. Smith, 51, of Cottage Grove, OR passed away at his home surrounded by family and close friends on Nov. 15, 2013 from cancer. He was born June 22, 1962 in Cottage Grove, OR to Robert Lowell and Karen (Martin) Smith. Marvin graduated from Cottage Grove High School and received several auto mechanics certifications. He worked for Big Leaf Corp. maintaining their fleet of diesel and log trucks, he later worked for Holloman Ford as a master mechanic and he has owned and operated his own business, Marvin Smith's Auto Repair for 17 years. Marvin had a love for wildlife, dolphins and all animals but especially his dog "Stitch". He enjoyed traveling, cars, motor sports and loved going fast. Since the age of 10, Marvin and his brother Dale, have taken cars apart and rebuilt them together which grew into a life of sprint car racing and competition. Marvin loved his family, friends, pit-crew and fans; staying late after the races to sign autographs. He believed it was important to mentor young men and give back to his community in support of children and sports. He married Debbie Graves in 1980 and they later divorced. He is survived by his daughter, Kim Smith; parents Lowell "Smitty" Smith and Karen Proctor; brother, Dale Smith, all of Cottage Grove; sister, Shannon Burdett and husband Curt of Creswell, and partner, Brenda King of Cottage Grove. The Smith family extends a special thank you to Division Chief, Joe Raade and all the staff at South Lane County Fire & Rescue for providing transportation for Marvin and giving him his last fast ride. A Public Visitation will be Friday, November 22, at Smith-Lund-Mills Funeral Chapel from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. A Funeral Service will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, November 23, at Smith-Lund-Mills Funeral Chapel, 123 S. 7th St., Cottage Grove, OR. Burial will follow the service at Fir Grove Cemetery in Cottage Grove. Memorial contributions can be made to Big Al's Kids & Motorsports Foundation, 23505 15th Ave. NE, Arlington, WA 98223. The Marvin Smith Memorial Grove Classic Race will be held on Friday and Saturday, April 25 & 26, 2014 at Cottage Grove Speedway in honor of his dedication and passion for racing. -