Melvin Peters

Melvin Leroy Peters., 79, died Monday, Nov. 27, 2011, at the Inpatient Hospice Unit in Greeley, Co after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Melvin was born May. 27, 1932, on the family farm in Bird City, Kansas, to Carl and Hulda (Flemming) Peters. In his youth, Melvin worked family farm with his dad and brothers. He then went on to farm with his brother, Ervin, in the Flagler area for about six years before they were driven out by the dust storms. It was about this time that he met the love of his life and after six weeks of courtship married Evelyn Maxine Holsman in Atwood, KS on April 5, 1953. Shortly after their wedding, Melvin accepted a position with Department of Game & Wildlife in Carbondale, CO as a fish culturist. He raised and delivered fish, mostly rainbow trout, to lakes and rivers all across the Western Slope. During his time on the Western Slope, he also worked as gas delivery driver and later for the U.S. Postal Service delivering mail between Glenwood Springs and Salida. In 1973, Melvin and his family moved to the Greely area where he worked as a security guard for 12 years before retiring due to health issues. However, even after retirement, Melvin continued to work as school crossing guard in LaSalle where he acquired many “adopted grandkids.” As Melvin’s health declined over the last few years, he enjoyed attending Eldergarden where he made many friends of the staff and participants. He was very grateful for the staff and services of Eldergarden as the program allowed him to maintain his independence. He also delighted in the music, activities, and outings. No matter what health challenges he faced or how much pain he was in, Melvin greeted all he met with a smile and appreciation for help with even the smallest tasks. Survivors include his daughters, Carolyn Coffey of Greeley, Janet (Troy) Chase of Greeley, and Lanette Peters of Casper, WY; two brothers, Ervin (Carol) Peters of Bird City, KS, Dale (Janie) Peters of Westminister; two grandsons, Troy (Juliet) Chase, Jr. of Garland, TX and Brocton Chase of Greeley; two great-grandsons, Ethan and Aiden Chase of Garland, Tx and numerous nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Evelyn; two sisters, Edna Vig and Edith Rummel; and grandson, Lee Chase. Graveside services will be at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2011, at the Bird City Cemetery, Bird City, KS. In lieu of flowers, the family would greatly appreciate contributions to Eldergarden in care of Moser Funeral Home, 3501 11th Ave., Evans, CO 80620 given the vital role the program played in Melvin’s life.

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Melvin Peters

May 27, 1934 - November 28, 2011