Royal Herbert Marbut

Royal H. Marbut Sr. age 88 of Albuquerque, NM passed away at his home on Friday, February 17, 2023. Born near Purdy, Barry County Missouri Saturday, October 20, 1934, he was one of 12 children to the late Hurshell D. Marbut and Blanche E. (Baker) Marbut. On Saturday, August 26, 1972, he was united in marriage to Erma Mae Nilchee. Preceding him in death were his parents; his ten brothers, Leon, Curtis, Ralph, Jesse, Fredrick, Onan, Theodore (Ted), Loyal, Allen, Joe, James; and one sister, Wilma Juanita.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Erma Marbut of Albuquerque, NM; and one son, Royal Herbert Marbut Jr. of San Diego, CA. As well as several nieces, nephews, and many cousins.

He was raised on a farm in the Pleasant Ridge Township area in Barry County MO, attending the Lone Hill school. He enjoyed the farm life.

Royal served in the Missouri National Guard in Monet, joining the United States Marine Corps in 1953. After serving 19 years 11 months he retired to fleet reserves and after completing 30 years combined service was transferred to full retirement. In Albuquerque with the Reserve Unit Inspector - Instructor Staff his duties were to work with the reserves Toys for Tots program which he enjoyed for two years before retiring. He was known as "Albuquerque's own Santa Claus" handling over 75,000 toys that were distributed to nearly 20,000 Albuquerque children.

Royal retired as a US Marine GySgt in 1972 having served during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Duty assignments included Okinawa, Japan. His last duty station at the time of retirement as Marine Inspector - Instructor Staff was at the Marine Reserve Center in Albuquerque, NM. During his service he received the Combat Action Navy Unit Commendation with 1-star, USMC Meritorious Unit Commendation, USMC Good Conduct with 5-stars, National Defense with 1-star, Korean Defense Service medal and Republic of Vietnam Campaign medal. He was proud to have been a Marine serving his country.

In his free time Royal enjoyed bowling, fishing, gardening (he won 1st prize in the New Mexico State Fair for a Giant Pumpkin grown in his backyard) and being a cat dad. He was also active within The New Mexico Native American Indian Nurses Association and the Navajo Club at the New Mexico State Fair.