He was older brother to Floyd, Ilene, and Reggie Mehling. He attended Roosevelt Grammer School, and Central High School.
In 1950, he was drafted into the United States Army, and served as a Tank Commander in the 1st Calvary Division, referred to as MacArthur's Division in the Korean Conflict, and was on the front lines of battle for eight months.
In December of 1953, he married Geneva Knisley, and began his farming operation. He soon became the proud father of Randy and Mike Mehling.
He made his first raisin crop with his dad at the age of eight, and his last one at 88. He was heart and soul a farmer, a husband, father, and grandfather. He was a good neighbor and friend to many.
Visitation will be held at Stephens and Bean Funeral Chapel on Sunday, April 8, 2018, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
A Funeral Service will be held at Stephens and Bean Funeral Chapel on Monday, April 9, 2018, at 10:00 a.m.
If anyone would like to honor Mel with a charitable contribution, please do so to Valley Children's Hospital, 9300 Valley Children's Pl. Madera, CA 93636.