Melvin Emery, age 91, of Chatfield, Minn., died on Wednesday, August 2, 2023, at Wellington Place nursing home in Decorah.
Graveside service with military honors will be held on Wednesday, August 9, 2023, at 11:30 a.m. at Burr Oak Cemetery, with Rev. Michael Wilker presiding.
Melvin Emery was born on February 17, 1932, on the family farm in Winneshiek County near Bluffton, Iowa, the son of George and Clara (Morrison) Emery. He was baptized at the Advent Christian Church in Burr Oak and he attended Bluffton #3 country school through the eighth grade. Following school, he worked on the family farm. Mel served in the U.S. Army from November 1955 to August 1957. After returning from the service, he moved to Chatfield, Minn. In Chatfield, he worked for AFC Factory for many years, he then went to work for William Hanson Waste Removal, from where he would retire. Although Melvin was retired, he still rode in the truck with Bill every day. Melvin was known for never being able to sit still. With this came his great work ethic. He enjoyed walking and gardening.
He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, Sarah and May Emery; and three brothers: Floyd, Bryce, and Vernon Emery.
Melvin is survived by his sister, Neva Emery of Decorah and his friend Bill (Lisa) Hanson, of Chatfield, Minn.