Melvin Slopey

Charlotte County

Melvin "Jack" Slopey, age 87, of Cape Haze, FL, formerly of Cleverdale, NY passed away at 9:45 p.m. Wednesday November 25, 2009.

He was born September 26, 1922, in Madera, PA.

He was wedded in marriage to Louisa Irene Blacklock on April 22, 1943. They met at Salem High School in Salem, NJ and were young sweethearts who enjoyed 66 years together.

Jack was a loving husband, father, grandpop, and friend. He was well-known for his outgoing personality, sense of humor, and kindness to all. A talented creator, Jack always had a project to work on and was passionate about making remote-controlled models, playing pool and golf, and boating.

Jack served in WWII in the 63rd Blood and Fire Infantry Division in Europe.

Prior to serving in the Army, Jack worked as a welding foreman in the Draveo Shipyard in Wilmington, DE helping to build victory ships.

After the war Jack worked as a truck driver, welder, mason, general contractor and later was owner of the Forest Park Mobile Home Park. He served as President of the Homebuilders Association of Northern New York in Glens Falls. Jack always had a sense of duty to his country and community and was generous with his time.

After moving to Florida in 1983, Jack and his wife Louisa became very active in the Windward community. He was one of the early organizers of the Tuesday/Friday Windward men's group which helped make newcomers welcome. Jack was also very dedicated to the Englewood United Methodist Church and always present at the 8:00 am service and the Wednesday evening bible study.

Jack was predeceased by his parents and two sisters and three brothers. He is survived by his wife, Louisa Slopey, his beloved dog Cricket, his sons Brian and Greg, their wives Meg and Patricia, his two Granddaughters Amber and Shannon, numerous nieces and nephews, and many close friends.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at the Englewood United Methodist Church in the sanctuary on Friday December 11 at 11:00 a.m. The church is located at 700 E. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL.

In lieu of flowers please send contributions to either the America Cancer Society or Tidewell Hospice and Palliative Care 5955 Rand Blvd Sarasota FL 34238 www.tidewell.org.

Lemon Bay Funeral Home Englewood Chapel is in charge of arrangements. You may express your condolences to the family at lemonbayfh.com