Melvin Harold Hoyer

He was born on October 9, 1925, the 2nd child of Louis and Amanda (Miller) in Lehigh Iowa. His mother Amanda passed away when he was 11 years old. Raised in Lehigh on the family farm where he helped his father, he graduated from Burnside High School, and attended Iowa State University. He then joined the US Navy, and served honorably until 1951. He married Ruby May in July of 1948 in Iowa. After his service in the Navy, he returned to Iowa and farmed until they moved to Ellsworth, Iowa, and then he worked on construction crews. They moved to Apache Junction in 1982, and he continued to work on construction crews and as a handy man until he was 80. He enjoyed woodworking, crossword puzzles, Sudoku, politics, and was very spiritual. He was a confirmed Lutheran, and helped with Communion at his church. He also loved to donate to various organizations. He was well read, very active, intelligent. He was also a member of the American Legion and the VFW.

Melvin is survived by his children Vera Gelder (Arlon), Melva Faulkner and Vern Hoyer; half-brother Marvin “ Marv”; grandchildren; Mike, Jon, Melissa, Ben, Alison, Jessica, Katie; 15 great grandchildren and 3 great great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Ruby, daughter Elaine Hill, and his sister Mildred.

A memorial service will be held on February 18, 2016, 11:00 am, Mountain View Lutheran Church in Apache Junction. Mariposa Gardens are entrusted with arrangements.