Founder, Conover Builders in Skillman
October 1, 1934 — August 11, 2025
Marvin Earl Conover of Rocky Hill, a dedicated mason, contractor, and lifelong member of Somerset County, NJ, died peacefully on Monday, August 11, 2025, at the Center for Hope Hospice Facility in Scotch Plains, NJ. He was 90 years old.
Born on October 1, 1934, in Somerville, NJ, Marvin was a proud descendant of the Plymouth colonists and cherished his roots. On his mother's side, they had come over on the second voyage on the Mayflower and eventually settled as Quakers. His patriotic spirit was evident in his pride in being an American, consistently flying a flag outside his home.
Marvin's career spanned over 40 years, including being the owner and operator of M.E. Conover Builders in Skillman, NJ. His commitment to excellence was unparalleled; he believed that if something was to be done, it must be done right. Among his many projects, Marvin built the bar at The Tiger's Tale (known then as the Foolish Fox) where he met Bobbie, a waitress there who would later become his beloved wife. His dedication to a job well done extended not only to his work as a contractor but also as a landlord, where he took great pride in working on and improving the properties.
A 1953 graduate of Somerville High School, Marvin excelled in track and field, showcasing his limitlessness early in life. His resilience shone brightly through his character, marked by toughness and an unyielding spirit.
Despite facing numerous surgeries and health challenges, Marvin was never one to complain about his circumstances or pain. He will be lovingly remembered by his family for his nightly talks, unwavering positivity, and endearing dry sense of humor, which would occasionally give way to warm laughter. A familiar sight to his family and friends, Marvin, (also known as Covey or Earl the Pearl), enjoyed displaying his children's and grandchildren's names on the front of his work vehicle and always offered an encouraging thumbs up.
Marvin was enthusiastic about many interests and hobbies. He was an avid fan of the Chicago, St. Louis, and now Arizona Cardinals, as well as the New York Yankees. His love for baseball and football was matched only by his affinity for golden retrievers and deep-sea fishing during his younger years. He had a remarkable talent for gardening, cultivating stunning rose bushes and thriving tomato plants with his green thumb. Marvin also had a well-known sweet tooth, particularly relishing ice cream, traditional family fruitcake, and lemon meringue pie.
He is survived by his children: Judi John (Steve Grimes) of ChampionsGate, FL, Keith Conover (Kimberly) of Flemington, NJ, Melissa Leonardo of Rocky Hill, NJ, and Robert Ambrose of Ewing, NJ. His legacy continues through his grandchildren, including Danielle Carr (Damon), Kyle Conover (Amanda), Nicole Bruckner (Nick), and Joanna Leonardo, as well as two great-grandchildren, Riley Carr and Luke Conover, with a third great-grandchild on the way!
Marvin was predeceased by his beloved wife, Roberta D. "Bobbie" Conover, with whom he spent 38 wonderful years, his sister, Eloise Pope, and brother-in-law, H. Raymond Pope, as well as his parents, Earl and Grace (Randolph) Conover.
Marvin Earl Conover's memory will live on within the hearts of his family and friends, as they carry forth the values of hard work, dedication, and positivity he embodied throughout his remarkable life.
Arrangements and interment in Bound Brook Cemetery, Mountain Avenue, Bound Brook, NJ, will be held privately under the direction of the Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington, NJ 08822.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or the Wounded Warrior Project.
