Melvin O. Pemberton

Melvin O. Pemberton, age 76, of Marshall, went home to his Lord Thursday night, February 5, 2009 while in the loving care of his family at his home. Mel was born June 30, 1932 at his grandparent's home in Marshall to Melvin F. and Margaret S. (Lybolt) Pemberton. Marshall has been home to Mel all of his life. He was a member of the Marshall High School graduating Class of 1951 and a proud Redskin. After graduation Mel started working at Kellogg Company in Battle Creek. On Nov. 4, 1952 he entered the U.S. Army. He served until his honorable discharge as a Staff Sergeant on Nov. 3, 1954. Mel returned to home and his work at Kellogg's. He met Dolores J. Allswede by being introduced by a mutual friend while she worked at Schuler's. They started dating, fell in love, and were married in Angola, Indiana on Feb. 8, 1956. They drove back to Win Schuler's after their ceremony for a well remembered celebration with family and friends. Mel worked at Kellogg's for 38 years, retiring in 1989 as a Head Operator. His team was recognized with several awards for their efficient work keeping the machinery running there. After retirement Mel drove a Dial Ride bus, and did car transfer work for Caron's Chevrolet. He was a dedicated and active member of Moose Lodge #676 where he has served as Governor twice. Mel was recognized with the Moose Lodge's highest honor, the Order Of The Pilgrim in 1987. He has served on the Lodge's Ritual Team and was their Sergeant At Arms for many years. The team won first place in competition twice. He started cooking at Friday night dinners at the Moose with his mother. He did that for 17 years and also was a bingo caller at the Lodge. He was a member of the Legion Of The Moose. Mel was a harness racer for many years until 1974, taking many first place trophies at County Fairs. He was active with Boy Scout Troop #337. The Scout's had a Bag Pipe and Drum Corps and later a Drum and Bugle Corps that Mel was involved in. Mel enjoyed attending Redskin high school football games. Surviving are his wife Dolores; daughter Meladee A. Pemberton of Marshall; 3 sons Melvin R. "Skip