Melvin E. Nelson passed away in his sleep on July 16th, 2024. He was 92 years young.
Melvin was born in Beresford, South Dakota and was raised on a small farm. He had a sister, Clarice Nelson Will. They lived near his many uncles and aunts. He was valedictorian of his high school class and attended South Dakota School of Mines, where he earned a Bachelor of Chemical Engineering degree. He married Cleo L. Nelson and accepted a job at Dow Corning, in Midland, Michigan. They raised two children, Kathryn Nelson Pierce and Jeffrey Nelson. Melvin worked, initially, as a research chemist and advanced in his career until he retired as a Senior Vice President. During his career he attended Harvard Business School and earned an MBA. He volunteered frequently at his church, local theatrical productions and activities in his children's lives. In 1980, Cleo passed away. In 1982, he married Patricia Smith. Throughout his adult life, he enjoyed traveling and was an avid golfer, and card player. Melvin was a patient and loving father to his children and grandchildren and was known for a dry wit. He spent his last years in Fort Wayne, Indiana at a Senior Care facility.
He is survived by his sister, his two children, three step children, and many grandchildren and great grandchildren.