Gilbert ''Gib'' Melchert

Age 75, passed away at his home on Friday, May 2, 2003. Gilbert was born May 11, 1927 in Appleton, son of the late Bernard C. and Minnie (Wyro) Melchert. He was baptized at, confirmed in, and had been a life member of Mount Olive Ev. Lutheran Church. During World War II, Gib served his country as a member of the United States Army, seeing action in the European Theatre. On June 5, 1948, he married the former Marjorie Buss; the Lord blessed the couple with fifty-four wonderful years together. In 1987, he retired from Aid Association for Lutherans, following thirty-nine years of faithful service. Gib was a life member and past commander of the Harvey Pierre Post #2778 of the VFW, and was also a life member and Past Seam Squirrel of the Military Order of Cooties. He was one of the originators and a charter member of the Appleton District of the Postal Customer Council. At Mount Olive Ev. Lutheran Church, Gib served as an usher, councilman, congregational secretary, and treasurer of the building committee. In his free time, he enjoyed bowling, golf, and travel.

Gib is survived by his wife: Marjorie Melchert of Appleton; two daughters: Janine M. (Ted) Schulz of Littleton, Colorado and Tanya J. (Mark) Tesch of Pine, Colorado; two granddaughters: Nicole Schulz and Alyssa Schulz; a brother: Carl (Ruby) Melchert of Appleton; a sister: Bernice Thyssen of Appleton; as well as by numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother Donald A. (Lorraine) Melchert; and a brother-in-law Jim Thyssen.

Funeral services for Gilbert will be held at 11:30 AM on Tuesday, May 6, 2003 at MOUNT OLIVE EV. LUTHERAN CHURCH, 930 E. Florida Avenue in Appleton, with Rev. Robert F. Raasch officiating. Entombment will follow at Highland Memorial Park, where members of the VFW Post #2778 will provide military memorial honors. Friends may call directly at the church on Tuesday from 9:30 AM until the hour of the services.

WICHMANN FUNERAL HOME
537 N. Superior Street
Appleton, Wisconsin 54911
920-739-1231