Robert Russell Melcher (1938-2016)

AUGUSTA – Robert Russell Melcher, 78, passed away June 20, 2016 at the VA Healthcare System in Augusta surrounded by his family.

He was born March 6, 1938 in Claremont, New Hampshire, the son of Edward R. and Laudina M. (Coulombe) Melcher.

He was educated in the schools of Jay and graduated from Jay High School in 1956 and then continued his education at the Auburn Maine School of Commerce, graduating in 1957. He was a veteran who proudly served his country in the US Army until his honorable discharge. On October 6, 1957, he married Rhoda L. Cameron of North Jay.

Over the years, Robert was employed by Norrwock Shoe in North Jay and Norridgewock, Truitt Brothers in Belfast, and Bass Shoe in Wilton and South Portland. He was a member of the American Legion of Skowhegan and a volunteer fire fighter for the town of Norridgewock. Robert enjoyed collecting coins as well as playing golf, baseball and rag ball with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He also had a strong love for old time country music.

He is survived by his wife, Rhoda L. (Cameron) Melcher of Winslow; children, Robert and Erica Melcher, Dwayne and Ming Melcher, Cindy and Doug Wyman, Jeff and Jenny Melcher, and Anne and Mike Latendresse; grandchildren, Justin and Kelly Melcher, Colleen Melcher, Daryl Wyman, Jimmy and Kristin Melcher, Colette and Kassidy Latendresse; great grandchildren, Spencer, Brandon and Brooklyn Wyman, Jude Melcher Le and Tanner Melcher; siblings, Terry Bergeron, Edward Melcher Jr., Larry Melcher and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents and sisters; Violet Viotto and Marceline O’Brion.

A graveside service will be held Tuesday, June 28, 2016 at noon at the Maine Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery, 129 Blue Star Highway, Augusta (beside 99 Restaurant) with Reverend Mark Tanner officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Robert’s memory to The Mid-Maine Homeless Shelter, 19 Colby Street, Waterville, ME 04901 or the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Road, Waterville, ME 04901.

Arrangements under the direction and care of Dan & Scott’s Cremation & Funeral Service, 445 Waterville Road, Skowhegan, ME 04976.