My father would whistle louder than the big band orchestra blaring on his radio in his truck, scare you from your fallen slumber as you road hunted with him, by yelling "SLOW ELK" as you now stared down a bunch of cattle unamused at your half-cognitive stare..... He was predictable! If you needed help he was there, if you needed disciplined, he was there,(sometimes magically!!). Life brought about many turns and twists, yet he was always that rock you could land on if the seas got rough or the road a bit too rocky. He knew a hundred jokes, happy to tell them all, tied the greatest flies and fished the best lakes and streams. He served this great nation with distinction, but his greatest sacrifice was to his kids. His legacy wasn't something a nation would know, but those who knew him, were left with a universal depth of memories. If you knew him, we're sorry for your loss, if you didn't, we're sorry for your loss. The man simply was one of the cornerstones of our world. He made you laugh, cry, think and sometimes even wonder, but one thing he always left you with, was a piece of him. Good, bad or indifferent you always knew where he stood on things, what he thought the right road was and what it took to get there. We now must face this world without his physical presence, but his energy, love, grit and foundational spirit lives within every person he touched. If we can share that same kind of presence with those around us, we'll have left this world much better than when we arrived. To the person I proudly call my father, who's guidance, principles and synergy still drive me today, I sadly bid you adieu, but know it is not forever, for someday we'll meet again, and whatever stream you're fishing I'll grab my pole and meet you there.... Love you dad! To an eternal life you now live, filled with the wonders, dreams and ambitions not yet filled, may your spirit never get full, may your days always have adventure, and may the fish where you now live remain hungry and waiting... :)

Posted by Chris Alan Banzet Sr on December 20, 2023

God bless you Melvin. We thank you for fun times, I still have the flies and feather material for tying flies you gave me. I always think of you when I open my fly box! Thanks for being a great and true father and grandfather, and especially your service to this country will not be forgotten. Rest easy Mr. Ross

Posted by Dave Monington on December 18, 2023

THANKS FOR YOUR SERVICE

Posted by A VETERAN on December 16, 2023