Thomas A Melle

Thomas A. Melle, 83, died at his home in Prescott on Friday, January 28, 2005.  He was born September 10, 1921 in Saskatchewan, Canada, the son of Anton and Clara (Fenrich) Melle.  He married Montana Lindquist February 9, 1946.  Tom was a US Navy veteran and served as a machinist mate first class at Normandy.  After the war, he owned his own machine shop and worked as a tool and die maker. Tom was an avid golfer at the Antelope Country Club, golfing three times a week.  He also enjoyed walks around his neighborhood, traveling and gardening.  Tom was a member of the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Elks Lodge.    He was friendly and helpful to all who knew him, always offering a helping hand to those who needed it. Tom is survived by his loving wife, Montana, daughter and son-in-law Sue and Bob Folger of Prescott Valley and daughter Marlene Melle of San Diego; brother Steve Melle of San Gabriel, Calif., and sister Anna Serve of  Yuba City, Calif.  He is also survived by five grandchildren: Robert, Eric, Adam, Andrew and Monica.  He was preceded in death by his daughter, Jean Escover. Memorial services will be on Friday, February 4 at 1:00 p.m. at Prescott Community Church, 3151 Willow Creek Road, with military honors provided by American Legion Post #6.       In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice Family Care, 100 E. Sheldon Street, Prescott, AZ  86301.  Cremation was private at Bradshaw Crematory.  Arrangements entrusted to Arizona Ruffner Wakelin Funeral Home.