Edmund W. Melvin

Edmund Waller Melvin passed away peacefully in June at home in Pebble Beach with Mary Jane his devoted wife of nearly four decades, by his side. He was a man of substance; an officer and gentleman, a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend and a great deal more. His legacy included solid values, good works, family ties, laughter, music, adventure and abundance of great memories.

Ed's journey began in 1933, Kansas City, Missouri with a surprise entrance into this world following the birth of twin brother, Bill, delighting parents Marion Melvin (Presbyterian Minister) and Valentine (Nurse). The boys welcomed their youngest brother, John, five years later.

After completing high school in Perryton, Texas, Ed ventured to Austin where he received a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the The University of Texas in 1956. Wasting no time, he joined the Navy earning his “Wings of Gold” marking the beginning of a 24 year illustrious career as a United States Navy Aviator serving admirably on land and sea in operational and management positions. Along the way, he received degrees in Aeronautical Engineering from the Navy Post Graduate School in Monterey, and advanced training at Stanford in Aerospace Structures, thus qualifying him for an advanced Engineers degree in Aeronautics. In the 1970s, he returned a second time to the Navy Post Graduate School for a Masters in Business specializing in Systems Acquisitions Management.

Ed’s many military assignments included Air Anti-Submarine Squadron, Staff member of Navel Air Force Pacific being on the Staff of Fleet Air Mediterranean. While working at the Pentagon Ed’s first wife, Mary Helen, tragically passed away in 1969. The Navy was supportive to the family, allowing Ed the choice of returning for three Years to Italy with his young children for a second tour of duty. Ed’s final position, prior to retirement as a Captain in 1980, was in Long beach as the Naval Plant Representative. Years later, with a gleam in his eyes, Ed would recall the thrill of making night landings on straight deck carriers in the North Atlantic. The Navy treated him well, Ed always said, “I got back as much as I gave.”

A few years after his military retirement, a pivotal stroke of serendipity occurred, when Ed and Mary Jane met at the Carmel Ski Club and shared their first dance, foretelling a lifetime of others to follow. Sparks flew, and it didn’t take long for Ed to relocate close to where she lived with her children in Pebble Beach. Their wedding took place on Valentine’s Day 1986 in Pebble Beach, where they continued to live out their joyous, ever deepening love story.

Never one to let grass grow under his feet, Ed’s drive, creativity, and high energy found expression in diverse and contributory ways, in addition to his devotion to family life. His entrepreneurial enterprises included President of Alverca Aerotek International (AAI) providing program management services for aerospace projects including FFA certification with focused interest in OGMA, an overhaul repair facility near Lisbon, operated by the Portuguese Air Force. He also was employed for several years at United Technology in Morgan Hill, heading Quality Control for their Rocket Motor Division, followed by his final job at CTB/McGraw Hill as Information Analyst Manager receiving the “good sport” award as the only male on the CTB bowling team. A persistent problem solver, Ed held several patents, the latest being a bucket holder with one of its functions to prevent paints and other chemicals from spilling while being transported. Although he received a Real Estate Broker License in 2006, he preferred focusing on his pet project of developing and improving an historic lodging house in southern California, purchased during his Navy days.

Ed was service oriented, especially enjoying his longstanding membership in the Monterey Rotary Club including outreach projects. He supported and volunteered for many varied causes, including helping those in need, civic rights, conservation, and responsible stewardship of environment. His passions included flying, skiing, running, hiking, learning, traveling, animals, nature, music (harmonica) and dancing with his wife, whenever possible.

Ed is survived by his wife, Mary Jane Melvin, seven children (including step children); Mark Melvin, Cynthia James, Stephen Melvin, Jennifer Melvin, Mary Elizabeth Moore, Christopher Moore, and Judith “CJ” Oblander, grandchildren Daniel, Nick, Matt, Oliver, Jordan, Ethan, Michael, Finley, and Theo; Daughter’s-in-Law, Debra Melvin, Torrie Groening (Melvin), Andrea Ruzicka (Moore) and Son-in-law Larry Oblander, Brother Bill Melvin, Nieces and Nephews along with other dearly loved relatives and friends.

Ed was an exceptionally fine man of honor, character, valor, strength, devotion, service, and kindness, who touched many lives, especially those who knew and loved him. His memory will always be lovingly cherished and carried with profound gratitude in our hearts.

Much appreciation is extended to Ed’s supportive team from Hospice of Central Coast, Dr. Lulu Zhang, Dr. Centurion, Alex Hernandez, along with other compassionate health care providers, family, friends, and especially those providing spiritual support.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 PM on July 13 at the Church in the Forest next to Robert Louis Stevenson School in Pebble Beach. Following the service there will be a sharing of memories about Ed followed by a barbeque at Indian Village Picnic Grounds also in Pebble Beach.

Contribution to your favorite charity is suggested in lieu of flowers.