Born June 5, 1924 in Greencastle, he was the son of Cecil Paul and Katy (Harmon) Ellis and was a graduate of Greencastle High School “Class of 1942”.
He was a United States Army Veteran having served in the 97th Infantry Division Company D 322nd Medical Battalion during WWII. and was a member of the V.F.W.
Melvin was a self-employed carpenter and had worked at the Zinc Mill for 11 years.
He is survived by his children, Kenny W. Ellis, Wanda K (Dr. Jim) Blume, Linda F (Bob) Nichols, Donald (Carol) Ellis, William E. Ellis (Shirley), Russell W. (Janet) Ellis, and Rose Ann Ellis; 17 grandchildren, several great and great great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Maxine (Knauer) Ellis; parents; brother, Lloyd Ellis; daughter-in-law, Phyllis Ellis, and a granddaughter, Margaret Arevalo.
Private Graveside services will be held with military honors at the Boone-Hutcheson Cemetery.
Condolences and memories may be shared with the family c/o www.Hopkins-Rector.com