Mel was born May 16, 1924 in Springfield, IL the son of John H. and Lena D. (Westfall) Park. He graduated from Springfield High School and married Helen G. Hunt, July 16, 1944 in Springfield. She preceded him in death January 5, 2014. He was also preceded in death by his parents, a brother John, and a nephew Gregory.
Mel served with the 9th Marine Corps Air Wing during WW II. He received personnel and management training at Knox College, Galesburg, IL and AT&T’s Training Center, Atlanta GA.
He was employed by Illinois Bell Telephone for 32 years, during which he was transferred seven times, until his retirement as District Plant Manager in 1982.
Mel was a member of the First Christian Church, Davenport, IA for many years. The congregation honored him as Layperson of the Year in 1996 and named him Elder Emeritus in 2001. He was a 32 degree Mason and was an active member of the Mt. Vernon (Illinois) Lion’s club, Rock Island Rotary and served on the board of directors of his church, as well as the Mt. Vernon and Peoria Illinois Chambers of Commerce. He and his wife Helen delivered Meals on Wheels in Scott County for many years and were active in the Retired Senior Volunteer Program. Mel enjoyed music, poetry and a good joke. His most treasured attributes were his integrity and his ability to love.
Mel is survived by his son, Scott (wife Kim) Park of Williamsville, IL, his grandchildren; Anthony (Billi) of Auburn, Andrew (Stephanie) of Athens, and Angela (Jon) Kistner of Sherman, his great grandchildren; Gavin, Bryce, Conner, Elizabeth, William, Jacob and John, a step-granddaughter, Shannon Smith of Williamsville, and a step-great granddaughter, Jade Moughan.
Arrangements are under the direction of Bisch and Son Funeral Home 505 E. Allen, Springfield, where a visitation will be from 9:00 am Tuesday August 19, 2014 until the time of funeral services there at 10:00 am Tuesday. Rev. David W. Gessaman will officiate. Burial will follow in Walnut Hill Cemetery near Williamsville.
Those who wish may direct memorial contributions to the First Christian Church of Davenport IA.
Please visit the online “Life Remembered Story” at www.bischandsonfuneralhome.com where tributes and condolences may be left for the family.
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