Melvin John Freauff

Mel was born in Portland, Oregon to John and Vera Freauff on August 5, 1935. He grew up in Portland, attending Jefferson High School, and joined the Marine Corps Reserve while in high school. He graduated in 1954 and entered active duty, after two years in the reserves. During his career in the Marine Corps Mel served three tours in Vietnam, travelled to Australia and Hong Kong, and served in many capacities, as a Captain’s Orderly, an Infantryman, Military Police, and finally in Marine Aviation as Flightline Mechanic . In 1960 Mel married Louisa Rice and the couple began building their family. Mel served as a mentor to countless young Marines, taking them under his wing and helping them correct their course when necessary. In 1974 he retired from the Marine Corps after 21 years of active duty and began his civilian career with TriMet as a bus driver. Mel drove for TriMet for 20 years (1976 – 1996).

He was a long time member of King of Kings Lutheran Church in Milwaukie. He enjoyed singing in the church choir, volunteering, and mentoring some their also. In their retirement, Mel and Lou enjoyed travelling together, camping with family and friends, weekend drives, trips to the beach to watch storms and waves. He would go anywhere as long as Lou came with him.

On May 18, 2015, Mel passed away at home with his family by his side. He will be missed by his wife, Louisa; son Michael, daughter in-law Cheryl; daughter Lorrina, son-in-law Kenny; daughter Deana and daughter Melanie, son-in-law Phill; grandchildren, Jason, Kimberly, Christina, Michael Jr., James, Megan and John; great-grandchildren, Kurtis, Nevaeh, Austin, Jennifer, Tristan, Angelia, Nolan and Riley; sisters Marlene and Susan.

A memorial service will be held at 10am on Tuesday, May 26, 2015 at King of Kings Lutheran Church in Milwaukie followed by a graveside service with honors at 1pm at Skyline Memorial Gardens in Portland. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Kings Cupboard Food Pantry, 5501 SE Theissen Rd, Milwaukie 97267 attn: King's Cupboard in honor of Mel Freauff.