Obituary for Vernon Duane Melcher

Vernon Duane Melcher died Friday, January 30, 2009 at his home after a sudden illness. Memorial services will be Friday, February 6 at 11am at the Methodist Church in Waukon with Pastor Richard A. Iles officiating. Friends may call after 09:30 Friday at the church. Vernon Duane Melcher was born February 6, 1923 to John and Effie (Leas) Melcher in Linton Township, Allamakee County. He received his education at "Big Foot" rural elementary school. On October 12, 1945 he was married to Madonna Wilkins at the Little Brown Church in Nashua. Of this union two sons were born, Arlan (1/12/48) and Darwin (5/10/50). They farmed north of Rossville from October17, 1945 until March 1, 1949. At that time, they moved to rural Castalia until the spring of 1950. They then purchased a farm north of Rossville. The marriage was dissolved in November, 1975. Vernon remained on the farm. On January 28, 1978 he was united in marriage to Margaretta (Bunny) Darling Steele at the Forest Mills Methodist Church in Forest Mills. In 1980 Vernon and Bunny retired to Waukon. Vernon is survived by his wife, Bunny, one son Darwin Melcher of Decorah, one sister Joan McCraney of Evansdale, two brothers, Ivan Melcher of Monona and Noel (Marcine) Melcher of Burlington, Washington. Four Grandchildren Shane (Rachel) Melcher of Salt Lake City, Utah, Shana (Paul) Atkins of London, England, Christina (Thomas) Cooper of Bend, OR, and Brandi Plumbly of Des Moines, IA., six great grandchildren, and Bunny''s four daughters and grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his son Arlan Lee Melcher on December 27, 1993, five brothers, Lester, Glen, John (Jack), Carl, and Arden, and three sisters, Amelia Walsch, Arlene Hillesheim, and Wilma Cowell. Vernon was a lifelong member of the Methodist Church. He was a salesman for Asgrow seed corn for 18 years and a member of Farm Bureau. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, traveling, dancing, and playing cards. His heartfelt laughter and love of life will be missed by all who knew him.