Melba Elsie Adeline (Engel) Frederick, 94, a life-long resident of Springfield, died on Thursday, March 24, 2011. Melba was born April 1, 1916 in Springfield, the daughter of Melvin and Louise Seaman Engel. Melba graduated from Springfield High School in 1934 and married John Alfred Frederick on November 26, 1934. Her first job was in 1934 at Dazee's Orange Juice Store. She was employed by Thrifty Drug Company from 1952 until her retirement in 1978. She was also a tour guide with Presley Tours throughout the 1970's. Melba also volunteered at Memorial Medical Center for over 20 years. She was a member of First Christian Church for more than 60 years; active in the Christian Women's Fellowship and was a member of Lincoln Circle of King's Daughters. Melba enjoyed life to the fullest, participating in many hobbies and activities, including playing on a women's softball league in the 1930's, pinochle clubs, ceramics, traveling and camping. She was known among her close friends as the "Camp Director." Her husband of 71 years, Al Frederick, preceded her in death on May 30, 2006. She is survived by her four daughters, Shirley Tonjes of Albuquerque, NM, Janet, Suellen and Jeri Frederick, all of Springfield. One of her joys in life was spending time with her grandchildren, Rick (Wanda), Gary (Leann), and Stephen (Laura) Tonjes, Elisabeth (Josh) Hillman and Emma Frederick; eight great-grandchildren; Cody, Eric, Jerra, Jessica, Brandt, Julia and Luken Tonjes, and Eva Hillman. She is also survived by a brother, Quentin S. Engel of Springfield; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Visitation: Family will receive friends from 10:00-11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 2, 2011 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. Funeral Ceremony: 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 2, 2011 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to: Central Illinois Food Bank, 2000 E. Moffat Ave., Springfield, IL 62702 or First Christian Church, 700 S. 6th Street, Springfield, IL 62703.
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