Melvin Dean Monthei

Melvin Dean Monthei was born November 19, 1936, in Hubbard, Texas. Melvin was a standout three sport star for Hubbard High School and excelled at track, running the 100, 220, and 440-yard dashes and qualifying for the state track championship. After high school he attended Texas Tech University on a track scholarship until a knee injury ended his collegiate career.

After college, Melvin moved to Fort Worth and began working for Montgomery Ward off 7th Street near downtown. Over a 24-year career, he progressed through several different roles and eventually became manager of the catalog distribution center. Ever the competitor, he joined the employee bowling league where he once bowled the highest scoring league game (292) and met Mary Richardson who became his wife on July 18, 1964.

Melvin was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed horseback riding, fishing, and hunting, especially for deer. Always an amazing shot, he would usually spot a nice buck on the morning of opening day and with one shot would be finished for the season and headed to the processors before noon.

Melvin loved watching rodeos, especially PBR bull riding. His favorite sports teams were the Texas Longhorns, Texas Rangers, Dallas Cowboys, and the Dallas Mavericks. He enjoyed raising horses and goats and had a special place in his heart for his favorite dog, Buffy.

But most of all, Melvin loved his family. He attended all manner of activities for his children and grandchildren over the years, enjoyed watching them grow up and was always excited to hear all about their travels and adventures.

Melvin was preceded in death by his parents, Henry Monthei and Olga Zettler and his nine brothers and sisters. Melvin is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Mary and his two children - son Michael Monthei and daughter Kristi Monthei Russell, who is married to J.D. Russell. Melvin was blessed with four grandchildren - Kelsey Russell, Matt Monthei, Mark Russell and Sam Monthei as well as many nieces and nephews.

A funeral service honoring Melvin's life will be held on Thursday, April 18th at 2:00 pm in the Chapel of Chimes at Laurel Land Funeral Home and Cemetery, 7100 Crowley Rd, Fort Worth, Texas 76134. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, friends and family are encouraged to make a tribute donation in Melvin’s name to the Alzheimer's Association at the following link: https://www.alz.org/get-involved-now/donate .

Serving as pallbearers are Matt Monthei, Sam Monthei, JD Russell, Richard Monthie, Mark Russell and Mike Monthei.