Armand O. Melanson

Heaven has gained an amazing angel. Retired Col. Armand O. Melanson passed away on Saturday, May 24, 2025.

Col. Melanson was born in Massachusetts where he met and married the love of his life, Vivian. Through the years, they lovingly raised four children. They traveled throughout the US and the world. In Ft. Hood, Col. Melanson helped found and build the Ft. Hood Hunt and Saddle Club. While retired in Killeen, the Melansons met and gained additional “family” members with Rosemary, Anita and Carmen, who lovingly supported Armand and Vivian throughout their later lives. They received exceptional care from Visiting Angels – including Karen, Amanda, Bernadette, Gennie, Kissmae, and Leslie.

Col. Melanson was a member of the Massachusetts National Guard from 1948 to 1961. He served on active duty in the U.S. Army from 1961 to 1980. His military awards include the Bronze Star, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, the Army Commendation Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Armed Forces Reserve Medal and Parachutist Badge. Col. Melanson served at Fort Hood with HQ MASSTER and III Corps and Ft. Hood G-1.

Col. Melanson was preceded in death by his loving wife of 71 years, Vivian, and all of their parents, siblings, and their spouses. He was also predeceased by a grandson and granddaughter.

Survivors include two sons and their wives, two daughters and their husbands, 9 grandchildren and their spouses and 3 great grandsons. Also surviving are beloved nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be on Monday, June 23rd, 2025 from 5 pm to 7 pm at Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home at 1615 S Fort Hood St. in Killeen, TX. A Rosary will be said on Tuesday, June 24th, 2025 at 10:30 am followed by a Service of Christian burial at 11 am at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church at 2903 E. Rancier Ave., Killeen, TX. Interment with full military honors will be at 1pm at the Central Texas State Veteran’s Cemetery at 11463 TX-195, Killeen, TX.

Memorial donations may be made to Food for the Poor, Inc at 6401 Lyons Rod, Coconut Creek, FL