Marva L. Sickinger

Marva L. Sickinger, age 72, of Dover, passed away on Thursday, July 2, 2026 at Hennis Care Centre in Dover.

Marva was born in Dennison on July 31, 1953 to the late Marvin and Ann (Glauser) Sickinger. She was raised in the Tusky area, and attended the Sharon Moravian Church in her youth. After graduating from Indian Valley North High School in 1971, she went on to earn her Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from Mount Union College in 1975.

Marva was a music teacher and band director at Indian Valley North and New Philadelphia High School, and retired from Chagrin Falls High School after 18 years of service. She was known to set high standards for students, and encouraged them to reach their full potential. In addition to teaching, Marva also served as a judge for music competitions, and performed Easter services for many years at the National Cathedral in the Mount Union Brass Choir.

She was a true lover of all animals, especially her horses. She was trained in the dressage English saddle style of riding. Marva rescued many animals, even getting out of her car to help a turtle cross the road, and in her later years she fed a turkey vulture on her patio deck, despite her fear of birds!

Marva is survived by her brother, David (Paula) Sickinger of Dover; nephews, Daniel (Elizabeth) Sickinger of Dover, and Sammy (significant other, Kendall Schumacher) Sickinger of New Philadelphia; and her niece, Chrissy Sickinger of Cuyahoga Falls.

Those wishing may donate to the Tuscarawas County Humane Society, 1432 Tall Timber Rd NE, New Philadelphia, OH 44663 or the Alzheimer's Association Greater East Ohio Area Chapter, 408 9th St SW Suite 3400, Canton, OH 44707 in Marva’s honor.

The Toland-Herzig Funeral Homes and Crematory in Dover are handling arrangements. Per Marva’s wishes, private family services will be held. Please visit the funeral home’s website to sign an online guestbook for Marva.