Philanthropist and community leader Marv Soiland’s legacy to Sonoma County is immeasurable. In addition to a business dynasty, he instilled a philanthropic value into both his family and community. Marv reminded everyone that it is critical to “give ten and save ten”. By employing a tithing model, Marv felt we should all give the first 10% of our income (big or small) to charity, the second 10% to savings and live off the remaining 80%. Daughter Marlene Soiland said, “His philanthropy really was a central theme in his life.”
As a community we are mourning the loss of this great man, but also reflecting on what he has given to make us stronger.
Things Marv said often and wanted to be remembered for:
- Every day is a good day. Some days are just better than others.
- I never wanted to make promises to employees about bonuses or raises. I wanted to give people opportunities to let them do something with that.
- Money comes when you do the right thing, for the right reasons. By helping people, blessings come your way that you never thought of.
- I’ve had so many blessings in life. I have no regrets.
- Things happened in my life that I couldn’t have planned. I saw the potential to make things happen and followed that vision.
- I didn’t allow obstacles to stop me. I listened to what the person needed and tried to find common ground.
- The biggest joy in my life came from family and friends.
- We’ve had some great employees over the years that were such a blessing to me. I loved watching people grow and develop.
- Lots of things can get taken away from you by life. However no one can take away your integrity. You are the only one who can give it away.
- You never know how important your health is until it’s gone.
- I really loved working with people. It was fun to get things done. Financial freedom comes from tithing. Live on 80% of your income, save 10%, and give 10% to charity or your church.
- One day at a time.
- Marry the right person. This one decision will determine 90% of your happiness or misery.
- Work at something you enjoy and that’s worth of your time and talent.
- Give people more than they expect and do it cheerfully.
- Become the most positive and enthusiastic person you know.
- Be forgiving of yourself and others.
- Be generous.
- Have a grateful heart.
- Persistence, persistence, persistence.
- Discipline yourself to save money on even the most modest salary.
- Treat everyone you meet like you want to be treated.
- Commit yourself to constant improvement.
- Commit yourself to quality.
- Understand that happiness is not based on possessions, power or prestige but on relationships with people you love and respect.
- Be loyal.
- Be honest.
- Be a self-starter.
- Be decisive even if it means you’ll sometimes be wrong.
- Stop blaming others. Take responsibility for every area of your life.
- Be bold and courageous. When you look back on your life, you’ll regret the things you didn’t do more than the ones you did.
- Take good care of those you love.
- Don’t do anything that wouldn’t make your Mom proud.
21 Suggestions for SUCCESS
By H. Jackson Brown, Jr.
The Community Foundation expresses our deepest condolences to the Soiland family and those who were touched by this incredible man.
To read more about Marv’s amazing and generous life, see the recent Press Democrat article.
