Robert Allen Melson of Anderson passed on November 11, 2020. He fought a long battle with kidney disease and cancer. He was seventy four.
He was retired from Fort Wayne Assembly, UAW 2209. He served two extended tours of active duty service with the United States Navy. He visited 27 foreign countries in his first tour. He gained many college credits through the On Base College Curriculum Program in his second tour. He spent many years as an active drilling reservist. He retired from the Navy Reserve in 2003. He was a Lifetime Member of Fleet Reserve Association. He was president of Branch 130. He served on the National Board of Directors as Regional President North Central. He did extensive travel attending Regional and National FRA Conventions.
Bob was a member of the American Legion. He coached Youth Basketball and Baseball with his sons' teams. Bob's hobby was Go Kart racing. He was proud of the fact that he won a competitive race in five different decades. He also enjoyed attending dirt sprint car races in many states.
He is survived by his wife, Carolyn; a son, Robb (Kerri) Melson; grandchildren, Brody Melson, Ryan Melson, step-grandchildren, Devin McDaniel and Hailey McDaniel; son, Kyle Melson; sister-in-law, Treva Melson; nephew, Robert B. Melson; niece, Sandy Jones; father-in-law, Fredrick M. Jones; sister-in-law, Malynna (James) Silverthorn; nephew, Jeffrey (Meghann) Silverthorn; niece, Amy (Sean) Delaney and their son, Maverick; brother-in-law, Jerrold L. Jones; nephew, Alex (Julie) Jones; nephew, Max Jones; brother-in-law, David K. Jones; and special cousin, Jan Coates of North Carolina.
He is also survived by many Navy and Marine Corp FRA friends including special FRA friend, Marty Posekany of Michigan. He is also survived by his best racing friends, Terry Riggins, Rob Lennon, Dick Marguison, and Scott Campbell.
He is preceded in passing by his parents, James R. Melson Sr. and Dasie Mae Melson; brother, James R. Melson Jr.; mother-in-law, Roberta J. Jones; and special grade school and high school best friend, Steve Charles Givens.
SERVICE CHANGE: THE FAMILY HAS CHANGE THIS SERVICE TO PRIVATE AND BY INVITATION ONLY DUE TO COVID.
The burial will take place in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Daleville with military honors by Daleville American Legion Post #446 Honor Guard.
Memorial Contributions may be given to the American Kidney Foundation.
Rozelle-Johnson Funeral Service was in charge of the funeral arrangements.
Post online condolences at www.rozelle-johnson.com.