Melvin Edwin Wagner

Melvin E. Wagner, 80, Grand Forks, died Wednesday, July 15, 2009 in Valley Memorial Homes Eldercare Center. Melvin Wagner was born in Wilton, North Dakota on December 15, 1928 to Christine and Adolph Wagner. He lived with his parents on the farm near Mercer, North Dakota. Melvin attended school in Mercer until his family moved to Bismarck, North Dakota where Melvin finished school. Melvin was drafted into the US Army in August, 1951. He was stationed in Korea after basic training with Company B, 14th Infantry, 25th Division. He was wounded in March of 1952, and was awarded the Purple Heart and several other medals. He was honorably discharged in November, 1952 at Ft. Sam Houston, Texas. Melvin attended Bismarck Junior College, graduating in 1955. Melvin married Irene Seidler on June 23, 1956 at McCabe Methodist Church in Bismarck. The couple moved to Grand Forks in September, 1956 where Melvin enrolled at the University of North Dakota. Melvin retired in 1987 after 31 years of service as a US Postal Service Letter Carrier. Melvin was a member of Wesley United Methodist Church. He was a Life Member of Disabled American Veterans. Melvin enjoyed his family and was supportive of all of their accomplishments. He loved gardening, camping, and fishing. Melvin is survived by his wife, Irene of Grand Forks; two daughters, Kristie (Lynn) Hughes, St. Thomas, North Dakota, Tracy (Greg) Wicken, Grand Forks; granddaughter, Jennifer (Michael) Thompson, St. Thomas; four grandsons, Matthew (Carrie) Hughes, St. Thomas, Grant and Tyler Wicken, Grand Forks, Michael Lande, St. Thomas; two great grandsons, Preston Hughes, St. Thomas, Shawn Thompson, St. Thomas; one brother, Larry (Janice) Bismarck, North Dakota. He was preceded in death by his parents. INTERMENT: Memorial Park South Cemetery, Grand Forks. MILITARY HONORS: Grand Forks DAV Chapter #2, North Dakota Army National Guard, East Grand Forks American Legion Post #157 & East Grand Forks Veterans of Foreign Wars Post # 3817.