Obituary
Born on October 8, 1937, Marvin spent his life making a profound impact on those around him. The first member of his family to go to college, Marvin, went on to become a distinguished trial attorney in Chicago. He was known for his tenacity, ability to sway a jury, and determination to get justice for his clients. Marvin was also privileged to serve as the Honorary Consul General of Nepal, a position that allowed him to foster cross-cultural ties and deepen his connection to the people and land he loved.
Marvin was a devoted family man. He is survived by his loving wife, Allison, his children, Stacy (Jeff), Nick (Linda), and Josh, his grandchildren, Ben (Luz), Nick (Kat), Julia, Susie, Grace, Silvie, and Sarah as well as his sister, Shelly Gutstadt and nephews Chuck and Ken Gutstadt. His family will remember him as a loving, loyal person who always fought for the underdog and enjoyed spending time with family.
Outside of his professional life, Marvin had a deep passion for travel, food, and outdoor adventure. He shared many travel adventures with Allison. He treasured his time trekking in the mountains of Nepal, where he was inspired by the beauty of the country and the warmth of the people he met. At his farm in Michigan City, Indiana, Marvin found peace planting vegetables, walking the property with his devoted Big Dog, and partnering with his neighbors to nurture the land.
Marvin’s legacy will be defined by his commitment to family, justice, and community. He will be missed. A private graveside service will be held for family. A Celebration of Life reception will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to EkEkPaila, https://ekekpaila.org/ or The Greater Chicago Food Depository https://www.chicagosfoodbank.org/. To leave condolences visit www.shalommemorial.org
Guest Book & Memories
Share your memories and photographs below.
December 22nd, 2025
We had the privilege of knowing Marv for more than 30 years. He and Allison were wonderful friends to us both. We will never forget the Marv’s legendary holiday parties – always the highlight of our season! Rest in peace dear friend. Much love to Allison.
~Toni and Patrick Hanrahan
~Longtime Friends, Chicago, IL
December 19th, 2025
Me and Eugene met Attorney Brustin in in 1999 after our son was born and we became good friends to he and Allison, guest in their home, attended many great Christmas parties, always receiving a case of wine at Christmas. We are truly going to miss him. He was all about serving others. Verlean and Eugene Watson.
~Verlean Watson
~Friend, OakLawn. Illinois
December 18th, 2025
Marv Brustin gave me my first chance to stand up and try a case. He believed in me before I had proof. I’ll always be grateful for that.
~Cole Munvez
~Friend, Chicago, IL
December 17th, 2025
Marv, sad about this news!! always thought you were indestructible for our many years. best wishes, memories and thoughts to all who loved you. too many great stories to recount here. Rest Friend. Jerry
~Jerry Lavin
~Friend, law school mate, and more, chicago,ill, sarasota fl, greenvill,sc
December 15th, 2025
Marvin A. Brustin was a good friend and a terrific lawyer, known for his dedication to personal injury law and related matters. I greatly enjoyed his friendship, had the honor of attending his wedding, and was welcomed as a guest in his Indiana home. He will be deeply missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
Sheldon Davidson
December 13, 2025 | KEY WEST, FL | Friend
~SHELDION DAVIDSON
~FRIEND, KEY WEST, FLORIDA
December 15th, 2025
Marvin and I were friends since first grade. Judy and I wish our sincere condolences
May he rest in peace and may his memory be blessed.
Sincerely,
Judy & David Miller
~David & Judy Miller
~Friend, Scottsdale
December 13th, 2025
My husband Gene and I were friends of Marvin and Allison for many years, with fun and exciting adventures through The Adventurers Club of Chicago; Marvin’s visit to our home in Aspen and many of Allison and Marvin’s famous Christmas parties. Wonderful people, terrific friends, awesome memories of many many years.
~Dr.Marylou Witz
~friend, chicago, Il.
December 13th, 2025
My wife Katarina and I want to send deep condolences to Allison and family of Marvin, whom we remember of warm and deep discusions whenever we met.
~Olavi Goos and Katarina Andersson
~Friend through Chicago Consul Corps, Chicago
December 13th, 2025
I worked for Marvin during a very troubling and complicated period of my life. He was unique! Was a great trial attorney who knew how to relate to a jury. He walked to the beat of a different drummer! Thank you, Marvin for all you did for your family, clients and for me.
~Dan Walker
~attorney, Hinsdale
December 11th, 2025
My husband, Paul, and I met Marv and Allison through the Chicago Consular Corps. Marv welcomed us into the consular corps, introducing us to many fellow consulars, and sharing his experience. We will miss his presence at our gatherings.
~Julie Danis & Paul Donahue
~Friend, Chicato, IL
December 11th, 2025
Thank you for your service to the Nepali community, Mr. Brustin. Your leadership and contributions to the Nepali community will always be remembered.
~Megha Hamal
December 11th, 2025
I treasure my relationship and memories with Marvin. He was always warm, personable, humorous, and easy to speak with and be with. We lost contact for many years after graduation, but rekindled later in life. I am hopeful we will meet again in another life. Cheers for now, Marvin.
~ronald tarrson
~College Fraternity Brother, Santa Fe, NM
Guest Book and Memories
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