Melburn Chesney
December 27, 2014
Mel Chesney, 92, peacefully passed on December 27, 2014 at the Bright Kavanagh Hospice in Des Moines, Iowa. He was born June 1, 1922, son of Elizabeth and Joseph Chesney, in Munger Michigan.
As a member of the US Marine Corp Mel served in the Pacific Theatre during
WW II where he was awarded a Purple Heart for combat injuries sustained while in service to our country.
When with friends Mel would love to shower others with stories about his working life and world travels during his 30 year stint with Ford Motor Co.
Mel was preceded in death by his wife Vivian Jean and nine brothers and sisters, he being the last of his generation.
He is survived by his children, Carol (Larry) Ludwicki of Michigan, Rick(Suzanne) Chesney of Ankeny, Marc Chesney of Florida, and grandchildren, James (Laurel) Ludwicki, Elizabeth (Gabe) Chesney, Lauren Chesney, Lane Chesney, Paul (Martina) Ciccarelli, and Aimee Ciccarelli. Great grandkids include Enzo, Kaylee, Vivian, Sophia, Adrianne, Mia, Angelo, Ben and Emily. And a large contingent of nieces and nephews emanating from Michigan.
Services will be held at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter, Iowa, on Tuesday February 3, 2015 at 2:00 p.m.
The family wishes any memorial contributions be directed to the Bright Kavanagh Hospice House of Des Moines Iowa.
Condolences may be expressed at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Greg Chesney
02/03/2015
I will always be grateful to Grandpa Mel for his acceptance and wisdom. Mel taught me much in a short time. Much that I still live to this day. Besides our mutual love of Scotch, I will always have fond memories of our visits, his many vain attempts to impart his love of golf to me but mostly the warmth of his personality. He would light up any room and I try to do the same. Thank you Grandpa Mel. You are missed.
Ramona Powell
01/31/2015
May God give you the strength you need at this time of sorrow.
May you find peace in the knowledge that your loved one lives on - and will love you forever
With Sympathy - Semper Fidelis
Larry Nehring Marine Corps League Auxiliary
Des Moines, Iowa
David Benham
01/02/2015
My condolences to Mel's family. Mel and Jean were very good friends with my parents starting as neighbors from Kimberly North in Michigan. For years they would stop by on Christmas Eve and have many stories to tell. Mel was full of life and a joy to be around.
Brian and Maureen Chesney
01/02/2015
RIP Uncle Mel. Our condolences to his children and grandchildren. We enjoyed visiting with him every year when he came to Michigan and he will be missed.
Tom Tybinka
01/01/2015
Sorry to hear of Mel's passing. He and Jean were such good lifelong friends of my mother, Betty (Kaiser) Tybinka.
Knew them my entire life and especially enjoyed playing golf with Mel when he spent his summers up here in Detroit.
Think of them fondly.
Graeme and Mary Doyle
01/01/2015
Rick- Sorry to hear of your loss. May the memories you hold dear sustain you at this time. Praying for comfort for your family.