Monte Vista resident Melvin A. Ehrlich, 97, died October 9, 2014 at the Rio Grande Hospital in Del Norte.
Melvin was born in Hitchcock, Oklahoma on March 4, 2014 the son of Jake and Rachel Ehrlich. He married Marie Opal Danielson in April of 1939 in Guthrie, Oklahoma. She preceded him in death in 2003.
Melvin was a Rancher and Farmer, raising mostly cattle and wheat. In his early years he operated a Dairy for a time.
Melvin was a very religious man and supported the Seventh Day Adventist church. He held many different positions within the church including Elder and Sabbath School Superintendent. During his time in Oklahoma he assisted with the prison ministry.
In his spare time, Melvin loved to fish. He had a good sense of humor and enjoyed a good laugh, even up until his death.
He is survived by his daughter Lou (Jack) Thomas of Monte Vista; his granddaughter Cherri (Dale) Lyons of Del Norte; his great-granddaughter Larisa Chapman; his great-great-grandchildren Nolan Klassen and Innosencia Lyons; his nephew Larry (Nancy) Schneider, as well as numerous other nieces, nephews and extended family members.
Melvin is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, grandson David Eaton, great-grandson Ryan A. Lyons, sister Rosalie Schneider and a nephew Don Schneider.
Cremation was chosen and a Celebration of Life gathering will be held 2:00 pm Sunday, October 19, 2014 at The Legacy Assisted Living facility in Monte Vista.