Marvin "Marv" R. Roberson

 

Marvin "Marv" R. Roberson passed away on April 25, 2010 after a brief illness. He was 78. Marv was born March 21, 1932 in Long Beach, Calif., to William H. and L. Ethelynde Roberson. As a youngster, he lived for many years in Southern California and later moved to Chickasha, Oklahoma, where he was active on the high school sports teams. Athletics was a central focus in Marv's life. He attended Brigham Young University on an athletic scholarship and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree. After serving a LDS mission in the U.S. Western Central States Mission, Marv served as co-captain of the BYU track team in 1956. A March of Dimes National Scholarship allowed Marv to attend Stanford University, where he received graduate degrees in Physical Therapy and Education. Marv enjoyed a long and distinguished career as an athletic trainer, physical therapist and international lecturer. He was employed as an athletic trainer at Stanford University, Foothill College and for several NFL franchise teams. Marv came to BYU as an athletic trainer in 1966. He officially retired from BYU in 1989 after 23 years of service, yet his association as a consultant remained until the day he became ill with a virulent bacterial infection. Marv opened a private physical and sports therapy practice where he shared his healing touch with many others. A life long member of the LDS church, Marv served as an ambassador of his faith as well as BYU. His career spanned more than 50 years, including significant work overseas. Marv was the athletic trainer for several European national and Olympic teams. He is a past member of the National Athletic Trainers' Association Board of Directors and was inducted into the Utah Athletic Trainers' Association Hall of Fame in 2003. Marv has also authored two books on athletic training and numerous articles. When he was not at work, Marv took great pleasure in fishing, gardening and genealogical research. Marv's life work was generously supported by Doris.