Sent in January before Mel passed:
Dear Mel,
So sorry to hear about your setback, but it sounds like family is close by for you. I think about our good times at Ford Life and most of my favorite thoughts include you.  I learned a lot from you and you always brought enjoyment into our meetings etc.  Because of geography, you in Michigan and me in Georgia, I missed out on your insurance expertise and good work ethic. God bless you Mel and peace be with you.
Love,
David

Sent to Mel before he passed:

Mel I am always with you in prayers. I want to thank you for being my friend all these years. I am so glad Brenda is close by so she can visit often. I was visiting Gay Miller a few weeks ago and she was asking about you. You moved away but you were never forgotten. Have enjoyed our FB visits so much - have had some real belly laughs from some of the stuff you forwarded me. Made some real good life long friends at American Road and you are at the top of the list. My prayers are with you today and every day.

Sent to Mel in January before he passed:

Hi Mel - been a long time.  I hope you get to feeling better soon.

You were a trailblazer in your work efforts at Ford Life - one of the first F&I Training Managers; the consummate expert on ReInsurance. When we all got confused about the ins and outs of reinsurance, we called Mel.....he'll know the answer. We all learned a lot from you Mel and that is testament to your knowledge and work ethic.

Take care my friend - you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Tom O'Connor

Sent to Mel in January before he passed:

It has been a long ,long time since we last saw each other. I hope you remember me.  I left American Road in 1985 on early medical retirement. I believe the last time we were together was probably at Doyles' funeral.

One of the things I always remember when I think of you is the is the golf match between you and Stormy at the company meeting in Oklahoma. A  chip off between the two of you-Stormy,the semi-pro, and you. You being completely outmatched. All the guys watching and pulling for you. 

The competition lasted a LONG TIME- shot after shot- Stormy close to the hole,thinking no way you could beat his shot, and you did-time after time.

I never had so much fun in my life,watching you beat Stormy.

Jimmy Mack and I still keep in touch and he forwarded me your daughters' email.

I want you to know  Mel I respect you and consider you a friend. 
Best of luck in your recovery. You will be in my prayers.

Your friend,

Ken Davis

Thank you for this message. I have such fond and loving memories of him in Amarillo when I was a child. Even though he was actually a first cousin, he seemed more like an uncle
 My mother and Dorothella loved him dearly. Blessings to you and your family

I am proud to say that I was a friend of your father although we have not seen each other for a number of years.  Mel was one of the Ford trainers that got me going in the world of Ford in 1980.  We then worked together on projects and enjoyed talking and sometimes arguing on the project!  Mel was a very smart guy (as you already know) and read, studied and listened to others to sharpen his skill set even further.

I was an email contact for a number of years and enjoyed hearing from him.  I did not enjoy reading that his health was failing.  His distribution list was extensive but only scratches the surface of those he trained and lives he touched.  Mel will be truly missed.

God Bless your family,

Ron Suffolk
South Lyon, Michigan
February 11, 2015

Sending love and hugs to you dear friend.   I sent word to the church here, not sure if you had or not.   Your dad a beautiful testament of a God centered life...  I thank God for his life, for a chance to know him, and for you! 
February 11, 2015

Thank you, Brenda. I am so very sorry for your loss. I enjoyed singing with your father and talking with him. He will be greatly missed.
In His Love,
Sandy Hill
February 11, 2015

Hello Brenda 
 
My condolences to you and all of Mel's family. I certainly enjoyed talking and visiting him when Helen and he lived in their house. I've enjoyed reading and getting enlightened with all the emails he has sent me over the years
 
My prayers are with you ,but he's in our Lord's Heaven, AMEN !
 
In Christ 
 
Mike Chastain

February 11, 2015

With deep regrets. Your Father was a good man and good friend. Thank you for being such a wonderful daughter to both of your parents. 
February 11, 2015

SORRY TO HEAR OF YOUR FATHER'S PASSING. WE WORKED AT FORD FOR MANY YEARS AND HE WAS ALWAYS AN UPBEAT POSITIVE GUY.  WE WERE IN DEARBORN TOGETHER BUT I KNEW MEL IN NEW 0RLEANS AS I WAS IN ATLANTA AND LATER IN CHICAGO WHILE HE WAS MANAGER IN NO.I RETIRED SEVERAL YEARS BEFORE MEL BUT HAVE STAYED IN TOUCH BY EMAIL. I WILL MISS HIS MANY PASSAGES AND IDEAS WHICH HE STILL HAD EVEN IN RETIREMENT. 
February 11, 2015

My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. I am sorry for his passing but thank God at the same time that he will not have to suffer anymore. I worked with Mel for many years in Dallas and was glad to have him as my friend as well as a working buddy.I always looked forward to getting Mel's emails and will miss those greatly. 
Please keep me advised as I would like a copy of his obit even though I can't be there to pay my last respects. Blessings and Prayers
February 11, 2015

Brenda, thank you so much for the information about your dads extremely short Hospice designation and death. I knew he was having breathing problems but not until I read your message did I remember he was diagnosed with ALS.
I, like you, feel great relief that he was able to leave this all behind, return to Helen and his everlasting reward. 
Your dad was a special soul and always a teacher to me over the years. 
February 12, 2015

Your father was a wonderful person.  I enjoyed our experiences together in our early years at Ford, and even though I haven't seen him in many years, I've certainly enjoyed our email conversations.  Our thoughts and prayers to you and your family.
February 13, 2015

Mel and I used to correspond a bit after he left Arkansas for Crystal Lake and I retired from American Road, the auto damage guys.
I had rec'd notice of Mel's passing through Tom Hart, and here is what I wrote Tom.  Tom and I were acquainted though his Ford Life training while I was in Detroit (the longest year of my work life).  I worked for American Road 30 years in the Dallas, Detroit, and Los Angeles claims regions.

Tom - Sorry to hear he is gone.  Mel is one of the two people who interviewed me for the claims job in Dallas when I hired on (1968), the other was Doyle Keele, the Dist. Mgr., also passed away.
Mel and I saw a lot of each other my first two years, he had the unenviable job of training me, and then he moved on to New Orleans, and then to Detroit.  We saw each other from time to time over the years.  He came to L.A. a few times in different jobs while I was there and we shared some history,  At one time I was assigned to Amarillo which is where he was from, so we knew some of the same folks there and in Dallas. 
Mel always had a lot of ideas.  They seemed to fly off him like sparks off a grinding wheel, and he would write about them and try to get things changed.  Never knew him to hold a grudge or be mean spirited, even with folks who didn't like him or vice versa.  He could have put the screws to me those first two years, but didn't, and I had a good job for a long time because of Mel and Doyle.
Very sorry to hear of his passing.  I believe he will be another of those who will be welcoming me to the Pearly Gates when I get there myself.  
February 14, 2015

Thank you for letting me know, Brenda.
Mel and I met in Fireside Restaurant, by chance,( or was it destined?) and our friendship grew each time we were together. It was a pleasure to meet members of his family. It is hard to accept the fact that this vital, mentally alert and caring man is leaving us so soon. It is comforting to know that there is a place prepared for him and he is in it now.
February 11, 2015

Thank you for letting me know of your father's death. We shared a good mutual friend, Tom Easterly, who now lives in K.C.  I've kept up with Mel through Tom. Both  remnants of  the greatest generation. Malcolm and I wish your family peace in this difficult time. I'm sorry we are too far away to attend Mel's memorial service.  
February 12, 2015

Please accept my deepest sympathy for the loss of your Father, Mel. He was a special person and a good friend and I will miss communicating with him. 
February 13, 2015

I have very fond memories of your father. He was a sage of calm, gracious yet principled laser-focused conviction on all we hold dear as Christian American Patriots. I will always remember his thoughtful wisdom and winsomeness, though due to our separate paths they crossed infrequently. 

May the Holy Spirit grant all of you peace during this time of loss.

February 12, 2015

Sorry to hear of your dads passing..We worked together for many years and always enjoyed his company.  May GOD Bless.  
February 11, 2015

Brenda  we met once many years ago. I worked with your father during my time at Ford Credit. I had just announced my retirement from Ford in December and Mel gave me a call out of the blue. We reminisced about the good ol' days and fondly talked for quite a while about ALF and old bosses. Mel taught me a great dealabout work and life. Unfortunately, I will not be able to make it to the funeral, but you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
February 12, 2015

Brenda, I am very sorry to hear of your father's passing. I was blessed to be able to have him - in a small way - be part of my life, through our e-mail interactions. You, Kim, and your family are in my prayers.
February 11, 2015

Rest in peace, Mr. Mel Ingram. I am so glad I got to spend some time with you this summer in K.C. I will never forget the solo you sang, ALS and all. Thank you for sharing your son, my first love with me, and for my precious sis, Brenda Klockenga.

February 12, 2015

Janet let me know the news of your dads passing.  I just wanted to add my condolences to you and your family.  Your dad was quite the man of deep faith and I rejoice in his memory and his victory he now shares with Jesus.  We are those who know death will not have the final word!

Blessings to you and your family in your time of grief.  The passing of our parents is a very sobering reality.  Know you are thought of and prayed for today. 

February 12, 2015

Sorry to hear of your dad's passing. He was very special to me in so many ways.
The Nursing Home Ministry (with Jack Spurr) will be sad also.
I am sure Jesus welcomed Mel home personally!
February 11, 2015

Brenda, I was so very sorry to hear of Mel's passing. I knew he had been getting worse, but did not realize how bad. I know you will miss him. I thought so much of him and your Mom. We will be praying for you.
February 12, 2015

Knowing he has passed on to eternal life brings a big smile to my face. Will miss his humor.
February 13, 2010

So sorry we were not able to be a part of Mel's service.  He and Helen were both special to us!  We miss them both!  we are praying for grace during the difficult days ahead.  Praying fo ryou all!  It is a blessing to know he is with His Lord and with your mom & brotheer.

Telling the story reminded me of Mel (aka Grandpa) as every time I was around him he always wanted to share a story.

Mel accepted Matt & Nick as if they were his own blood and they loved and respected him dearly.  I was always comfortable about our encounters at family events.  He immediately seemed to take in our "functional dysfunctional" extended family.

We all know that heaven rejoiced at his coming home and there is no doubt in my mind that Helen was there to meet him and bring him home.  My heart & prayers go out to you.

I miss Mel's emails so much and his encouragement.  Our prayers are with you as you adjust to  your loss and Heaven's gain.

Prayers to you and your family.  Mel was a great man that will be missed.  His voice was awesome.  I'm sure he is up in heaven singing away.

Wish I could be there to celebrate Uncle Mel's wonderful life. So glad he and I kept in touch as he shared lots of great family history and takes with me. Something I will forever cherish. Praying for you during this time. With love.
February 10 at 10:00pm

 [I'm] reminded of a day when your dad was driving us somewhere, as he did many times, because we didn't have our driver's licenses. He methodically and elaborately explained to us exactly how to safely change lanes when driving on the interstate, and then concluded this lecture with a brief oral pop quiz to make sure that we were all paying attention. When he completed a thorough analysis of this maneuver, I remember thinking that I will never be able to master it. He then got on his newly acquired CB radio and began talking with other CB radio aficionados. That car ride was such a vivid memory for me, and I remember thinking that it seemed so important to your dad to seize this teachable moment because he really cared for his captive audience. It was all so adorable. It was delivered by a true dad.

What a wonderful man so very sorry for you and the boys. I hope knowing he is again with your mom gives you some peace.

I loved your dad. It was my privilege to sing next to him at Crystal Pines in nursing home ministry. His faith was apparent to all of us who loved him. I send my love and prayers for comfort to you, Brenda, and all of your family. I am sure your dad and mom are in joyous reunion. It is well with their souls.

I am very sorry to hear of your father's passing. I was blessed to be able to have him - in a small way - be part of my life, through our e-mail interactions. You, Kim, and your family are in my prayers.

I'm sorry to hear the news. I enjoyed fellowshipping with him and your mother while they attended Cornerstone. I will be praying for you and your family.

Mel was such a blessing to me. His emails throughout the years were so uplifting and encouraging. My prayers are with you and all the family. Much love.

Wish I could be there to celebrate Uncle Mel's wonderful life. So glad he and I kept in touch as he shared lots of great family history and takes with me. Something I will forever cherish. Praying for you during this time. With love.

Mel is surely enjoying  the great banquet feast in heaven with his Lord and all those who have gone on before him.  My deepest sympathies to the family as they mourn the loss of a great man while at the same time celebrate his life and experience the joy of knowing the outcome of his eternal destiny.   Wishing peace and comfort to all the family at this landmark moment in time.  Rest in Peace Mel.  Rest in Peace.

I had known Mel for most of my career at Ford, starting with American Road in 1968. Mel was always ready to help you any way he could. I learned much from Mel. Most of all I learned integrity and loyalty. I pray for Mel and his family at this difficult time.

I was so sorry to hear of Uncle Mel's passing, but I think he was ready to be "done" with the sufferings of this life.  I can only imagine his reunion with Helen & Gary and the rest of his family and friends.  I'm sure there has already been a lot of singing and laughing! I have wonderful childhood memories of all the family get togethers! Brenda,please accept my love and sympathy to you and your family, and may God bring you peace in the days to come.  Love you!

Just got back from Mel's Celebration Service and what a send-off he received. His musical selections were outstanding, the special talks by his son-in law Richard, daughter Brenda, and grandson brought me closer to knowing Mel, as I sat next to him during his time with the Gospelaires. He was a very personable man who cared for others and enjoyed his music. He will be missed but is now in a better place with his Savior and heavenly family. May God Continue to Bless You Mel.....

Mel was a very special person and remembered so well by all his friends with Ford throughout the retirement years.
            Mrs. Doug Walker  (Lynda)

Mel and I worked together with Ford for many years.   He was a great mentor and good friend in both a personal and business relationship.  My deepest sympathy to all his family.  May he rest in peace.

I will remember Mel as an incredibly organized and intelligent man who had a command of his life in so many ways.  His focus was always family first.  Peggy and I will miss his quick wit and his infectious smile.

Bud Kasper

I'm privileged to have known your whole family, Brenda!  Your dad had the best sense of humor!  I will always cherish the memories of the week spent with your family in Metairie and the visit to Hot Springs Village.
My thoughts and prayers go out to you and the family as you celebrate Mr. Mel's life!

I have so many wonderful memories of Uncle Mel and Aunt Helen.  I always loved the family hymn sing-a-longs and the game tables...even though we did get a little too competitive at times!  Brenda, I am so sorry for your loss, but I know it is comforting to have the assurance that your parents are once again together, along with Gary and the rest of the Ingram Crew, in HIS glorious kingdom!  Let the singing begin!!  My love, thoughts, and prayers are with you now and in the days to come.  May God keep you wrapped tightly in HIS merciful arms!  Much love to all of you!!!
Judy Carpenter Howell and Family

 I first met Mel at my Mom's when his wife and my first cousin brought him to Paducah, Texas to introduce him. I was impressed with him and his Christian presence then and  learned to appreciate him more through Helen's letters and phone calls. And thanks to his emails and facebook I realized he blessed all who knew him.  Condolences to all his loved ones.

Although I had not seen my great uncle Mel in many years, it was a pleasure to stay in touch with him via email. Between emails from him & his sister Dolores, I learned much valuable family history & funny family tales. He was a great man who left a big impression on many. Prayers are with all family & friends dealing with their grief at this profound loss. My love to all. - Jessica Dougherty (grand-daughter of Mel's sister Stella Collene)

Mel blessed me through generously sharing valuable life lessons and business
strategies he had learned.    Mel taught me the Lord was the source of our
strength during hardships, and to draw nearer to Him instead of
disbelieving; to be strong enough to gently love people, so to lead them
towards Christ.   Mel blessed others through faithful financial donations to
ministries, and encouraging newsletters; he taught others through singing
hymns, writing poetry, and through acts of service in his community and in
Christian ministries.   Rest in the Lord Mel.   Many condolences go out to
his wonderful family

Blessing and honor Merrill Travis Ingram.

Mel blessed me through generously sharing valuable life lessons and business strategies he had learned.    Mel taught me the Lord was the source of our strength during hardships, and to draw nearer to Him instead of disbelieving; to be strong enough to gently love people, so to lead them towards Christ.   Mel blessed others through faithful financial donations to ministries, and encouraging newsletters; he taught others through singing hymns, writing poetry, and through acts of service in his community and in Christian ministries.   Rest in the Lord Mel.   Many condolences go out to his wonderful family.

OBITUARY

Merriwell (Mel) (Mel) T. Ingram

June 11, 1932 – February 10, 2015

McGilley & George Funeral Home & Cremation Services

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