William J. Melvin

William (Bill) James Melvin, 84, died June 6, 2016, at Shea PARC Nursing Home in Scottsdale. He was born May 14, 1932, at in Columbus, Ohio, to Harry W. Melvin and Grace Margaret Burns.

Mr. Melvin was a United States Army Veteran. As a Sargent he served in Korea for two years from July 17, 1952, to June 25, 1954, where he was wounded. He received an Honorable Discharge from Active Duty. He worked for ASU for 21 years as a Supervisor Locksmith, had his own locksmith business for 20 years. Bill also worked at the Post Office and as a busser at night during his college years.

Bill attended Catholic Elementary School, graduated from high school, and then attended the Ohio State University for two years and received an Associate’s Degree. Later Bill became a lawyer but never practiced.

Bill played in a band, liked to dance, and dress up for Halloween. He was “one of the good guys,” a very honest, fun-loving man. Bill played football for the Denver Broncos from 1965 to 1969. He was hired on as a kicker, but played tight end. His number was 92.

Bill was a lifetime member of the America Legion Post 52 and VFW Post 7507 in Fountain Hills, a member of the National Rifle Association; a member of the Valley Singles Club; a lifetime member of the Central Arizona Tall Society; and member of St. Simon and Jude Club in Fountain Hills.

His sole survivor is Debbie Dehner who took care of her dad and her best friend, 24 hours/seven days a week. She is so honored to have been a part of his life.

Thanks to Hospice Family Comfort, they were very helpful. Thank you to Rose (Nurse) for being there for Debbie and supporting her when it happened, and to all the others from Hospice. Thank you to all the Caregivers for their support and help caring for him. Paul Martin, Dr. Paul Muffuletto, Eliz Bradley, Chuck Hackworth, Cindy Hamilton, Joanne Genualdi, Kathie Rairigh, Marijo Ortiz, and Rod Gerrities. Thanks also to John Greenwood for administering Holy Communion for him every week.

Thank you to pallbearers, Paul Martin, Dr. Paul Muffuletto, John Greenwood, Don Markowski, Rudy Rivas, and Rod Gerrities.

Thanks to all Valley Singles Club members who have helped me during this very stressful time.

From 4-7 p.m. Monday, June 13, 2016, friends may arrive for viewing at Queen of Heaven Catholic Mortuary Chapel, 1562 E. Baseline Rd., Mesa, AZ 85204.

At 10 a.m. Tuesday, June 14, 2016, there will be a Mass at All Saints Catholic Church, 1534 N. Recker Rd., Mesa, AZ 85205.

Following Mass Bill’s friends will travel to Queen of Heaven Catholic Cemetery, 1562 E. Baseline Rd., Mesa, AZ 85204 for final farewell and burial. There will be a Military presence for United States flag presentation to Debbie.

There will be a Celebration of his life potluck on Tuesday, June 14, after burial at Debbie's Place. 16433 E. Heather Drive, Fountain Hills AZ 85268.