Melvin F. Siebler died March 11, 2021 in Springfield, Illinois. He was born May 20, 1928 to George and Anna Siebler in Cedar Rapids, Nebraska. He grew up in Albion, NE and graduated from Albion High School in 1948, where he excelled in sports. He went on to serve in the Navy from 1948 to 1952 during the Korean War. During a mission for atomic weapons testing, the USS Elder suffered an engine room explosion. Pete was forced to abandon ship along with 25 of his shipmates. They spent 7 days adrift on life rafts before being spotted by a Navy pilot. They were rescued by the USS Comstock and taken to Hawaii. After completing his tour, he was honorably discharged and he returned to Albion. There, he reunited with his high school sweet heart, Arthura, who was on break from nursing school in Chicago. He followed her to Chicago, where they were married on July 1, 1953, after her graduation. Following a brief time back in Albion, Pete and Artie moved to Omaha. Over the years, they were blessed with four children: John, Rebecca, James and Sara. Family was very important to him. He loved to spend time with his siblings, as well as, his nieces and nephews. Pete had various jobs before starting work in the Metal shop at Offutt Air Force Base. After more than 23 years of civil service, he retired in October of 1990. Pete enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping. He continued to be active in sports throughout his life. Pete was also active in his church and was involved in many of its activities. He loved the Lord and made sure his children were brought up knowing Jesus. He participated in church softball, basketball and bowling leagues for many years. In fact, Pete continued to bowl in a Senior Bowling League into his nineties. Above all, his favorite pastime was playing cards with family and friends. “What’s wild?....ain’t gotta one!” Papa Pete will be greatly missed by his grandchildren Bo, Brandon, Ellie, Tommy, Derek, Lauren, Emily, Andrew and Jaynie, as well as his four children. Pete is proceeded in death by his wife of 45 years, Arthura and grandson, Bradley.
