Otters honoring lifelong Evansville sports fan with special jerseys, raising money for memorial

EVANSVILLE, Ind. (WFIE) – Nine years ago, Evansville’s “number-one sports fan” Marvin Gray passed away, leaving behind a life marked by his love of athletics.

Now, a local organization is teaming up with the Evansville Otters to raise money for a permanent memorial outside Bosse Field.

The Evansville Flag Group put together a fundraiser online with hopes of raising $5,000 to pay for it.

Marvin, who was the Frontier League Flag Chairman, was also known for his huge collection of flags.

People who knew him say he was given that title because he would raise and lower the flags at Bosse Field.

“Marvin was an institution in Evansville,” said Otters owner Bill Bussing in 2016. “He was known by the entire sports community. I remember growing up and seeing him mop the floors at Roberts Stadium at halftime of Aces’ games and high school tournament games, so he was revered by all who knew him.”

On Flag Day, the Otters will pay tribute to Marvin by wearing special jerseys inspired by the new Evansville city flag.

After the game, organizers say baseball fans will be treated to a spectacular fireworks display in celebration of Marvin’s life and legacy.

Fans will also have the opportunity to bid on game-used jerseys worn during the game, which is set for June 14.

Organizers say you can ensure Marvin’s legacy lives on by participating in the GoFundMe campaign, attending the Flag Day game, and bidding on the jerseys.

Marvin Memorial(Evansville Flag Group)

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