Melvin George Horihan

Mel was born on April 13, 1938 to Martin and Mathilda Horihan in Hokah, Minnesota. He grew up in the rural hills of Minnesota working on the family farm alongside his 11 brothers and sisters. When he turned 18 years old, he ventured out into the world enlisting in the United States Marine Corps. He traveled across the globe serving as a helicopter mechanic in Japan, while also participating as a member of the Marine Corps Judo Team, which competed extensively touring throughout the island nation. He received an honorable discharge in 1959 (followed by 3 years in the Reserves). Returning home, Mel moved to neighboring Wisconsin where he joined the Kenosha Police Department. After working for several years in public service, he shifted his career path to business, beginning as a production line supervisor working for the American Motors Corporation. During this time in Kenosha, he met his first wife Ruthann Braggo (deceased Jan 9, 1999), whom he married on September 1, 1961. Mel and Ruthann embarked upon a life centered on building a loving family, and had 3 sons, George, Christopher, and Michael, in 1963, 65, & 67. With the steadfast support and encouragement of Ruthann, Mel sought the American Dream and endeavored to provide an improved lifestyle with increased opportunities for his family. Working his way through college while also helping raise the boys, Mel earned a BS degree in Business Administration from the University of Wisconsin Parkside in the early 70’s. His business career flourished as he worked in the manufacturing industry, primarily for carbide cutting tool manufacturers. He rose through the ranks across various companies, from General and eventually Plant Manager, to VP of Operations and Facilities Coordinator for international metallurgical conglomerates. His professional success often took him on trips to foreign countries, while providing his family the opportunity to live in a range of locations along the eastern United States from New Jersey to Louisiana (and several points in between), eventually settling in Knoxville, Tennessee.

After the passing of Mel’s wife Ruthann, the next part of his life proves he was a blessed man. An unexpected chance encounter led to him meeting a second true love in Beulah Barnett, who had also been recently widowed a few years earlier. After an enduring courtship, Mel and Bea were married in a small mountainside chapel in Tennessee on February 9, 2006 and were virtually inseparable for the next 18 years, 8 months, and 25 days. Together they enjoyed life, running antique businesses, supporting the University of Tennessee “Vols” football and basketball teams, traveling, and often just sharing lunch or dinner at their favorite “date place” the Gettysvue Club. Many of Mel’s favorite things were activities involving loved ones, which included raising and watching grandchildren, great-grandchildren, godchildren, nieces and nephews, as well as extended families as they continuously grew. Mel was always surrounded by family and friends, and will without question, be remembered as an amazing father and loving husband who was extremely loyal and hardworking. He cared for others without hesitation and to no end, which he did until his final days. He will be missed by many.

Survived by wife Beulah C. Barnett; three sons, George (Camille) Horihan of Staten Island, NY, Chris (Nancy) Horihan of Morrisville, PA, Mike (Mary) Horihan of Ashburn, VA.; ten grandchildren, Emily (Eddie), Jacob (Danielle), George Matthew, Logan, Kyle (Allison), Alexandra, Mark, Dominic, great-granddaughter Kendall, and goddaughter Mari Groves. He is further survived by three sisters and four brothers. He was preceded in death by his first wife Ruthann C. Braggo, one sister, and three brothers.

The family will be receiving friends on Monday, November 11, 2024 from 1:00 until 2:30pm in the Chapel at the Berry Lynnhurst Funeral Home (2300 West Adair Drive, Knoxville, TN 37918). Immediately following will be the funeral service at 2:30pm in the same location. This will then conclude with a graveside service at 3:00pm to follow in the Lynnhurst Cemetery a short distance away (on the grounds).

All are invited afterwards to join us for light refreshments at Gettysvue Country Club (9317 Linksvue Dr. Knoxville, TN 37922) following the service.