Mel was born in Wharton, Texas to parents Eleuterio and Tomasa. He served his country proudly in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and retired from Inland Steel Co. with 36 years of service. During various stages of his life he was a member of American Legion, Loyal Order Of Moose #570, Mohawks, Local 1010, Soar, W.O.W. and was an honorary member of Hammond Elks #485. Mel was respected by everyone whose life he touched.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Manuel and Lupe.
Mel is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Ana Maria; children, Gloria (Danny Young), David (Mary Carol), Danny (Linda), Sonia Smith; 10 grandchildren; 21 greatgrandchildren; 1 great-great grandchild; numerous nieces and nephews; brothers, Jesus of Laredo, Texas and Higinio (Lucinda) of Michigan; sisters, Micaela (Robert) Cazares of North Carolina and Maria Elena Trevino of Texas.
Services will be held in Indiana.
