Wilbert Melzer

Life History for Wilbert C. Melzer
Wilbert Melzer, age 105 went to meet his Lord on Monday evening, April 19, 2010 at the Community Memorial Home in Osakis, MN.
Wilbert Carl Melzer was born in Courtland, MN on December 1, 1904, one of eight children born to Henry and Amelia (Wendland) Melzer. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Paul's Church in New Ulm. At the age of 13, Wilbert moved with his family to Drake, ND. On June 22, 1927 he was married to Minnie Beutler. Three years later they moved near Osakis, MN and began farming. Minnie passed away in 1945. Wilbert married Hazel Olson on June 29, 1947. A couple of years later they moved to a farm near Nelson, MN. At the age of 65 when most people think of retiring, Wilbert took on a new job. He began driving gravel truck for Wayne Lee Construction and continued in that capacity for another 13 years. Again he didn't retire, but returned to doing farm work. He would cut hay and operate a four-wheel drive tractor. He was able to farm up until the age of 99. Even at 105, he still had an active driver's license! Wilbert was able to live in his own home until the age of 102, only moving into the West View Assisted Living apartments in 2007.
Wilbert was a member of the First Baptist church in Alexandria and volunteered as a church greeter. He was also on the Osakis Township board for many years.
In addition to his love of tractors and driving, Wilbert always had a soft spot in his heart for horses, having farmed with them for many years. Wilbert will also be remembered for the special enjoyment he found in visiting with others. He loved to talk to people and learn about their lives and then share his life's stories with them. He was a kind and devoted father and grandpa who will be lovingly remembered by all who knew him.
He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, DeLair and Esther Melzer of Nelson, MN; 2 grandchildren, Arlen (Karen) Melzer of Gillette, WY and Lette (Bob) Larson of Nelson, MN; 2 great, grandchildren, Dr. Amy (John Klay) Melzer of Springfield, MI and Brant (Steph) Melzer of Gillette, WY; many nieces and nephews.
Preceding him in death are his parents, wives, Minnie and Hazel, six brothers, Alfred, Hugo, Louis, Elmer, Harry and Clarence Melzer and a sister, Irene Weiderhoft.
Funeral services for Wilbert will be held on Saturday, April 24 at 11:00 am at the Grace Baptist Church in Alexandria with Rev. Allen Travaille and Rev. Craig Dahl officiating. Musicians are Wayne and Gloria Lee, Ruth Peterson and Vicki Hessel. Interment is at the Lakeside Cemetery in Osakis with casketbearers being Arlen Melzer, Bob Larson, Bradley Dean, Jim Hessel, Brant Melzer and Russell Froemming. Honorary bearers are Bob Ferris, Orin Johnson, Russel Johnson and Mike Turner.
Arrangements by the Roy-Hetland Funeral Home in Osakis, MN.