Elmer G. Melchi, 92, passed away Thursday, Jan. 28, 2016. A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Monday, Feb. 8, followed by a family greeting from 4 to 6 p.m., all at Adrian Comer Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Sangre de Cristo Hospice. Online condolences may be offered at www.adrian-comer.com.

[Pueblo Chieftain Sun. January 31, 2016]

He is survived by his wife of 70+ years, June Mavis (Lloyd) Melchi, and sons Garry L. Melchi of Colorado City, Colorado, Steven A. Melchi of Champaign, Illinois, and David B. Melchi of Mesa, Arizona, sisters Vera (Melchi) Rogers of Uniontown, Pennsylvania, and Norma J. (Melchi) Ohlsson of Champaign, Illinois, thirteen grandchildren, twenty-six (and one on the way) great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. Elmer is preceded in death by his parents Mildred (Reed) (Melchi) Worthy, Perry Melchi, step-father Roy Worthy, son Thomas L (Tommy) Melchi, siblings Milton Melchi, Art Melchi, Velva (Melchi) Gunter, Leo Melchi, and Fred Melchi.

Elmer was a Life member of VFW Post 5520 (past Commander), Disabled American Veterans, Elks, and American Legion. He was also a member of Carpenters Union in Champaign, Illinois, VFW Post 7305 and the Moose Lodge. He worked as a Tile Specialist in Champaign, Illinois where he later retired. He also worked for Champaign Asphalt Company and as a Laborer and was a WWII Veteran in the 82nd Airborne Division and the 508th Parachute Regiment. He was a part of two combat jumps, D-DAY & HOLLAND (Operation Market Garden) and P.O.W. [in] Germany where he was shot trying to escape.

[Adrian-Comer Garden Chapel]