Melvin Donald Ramsey

Melvin Donald Ramsey, age 86, of Andrews, Indiana, passed away on July 5, 2021 at his home, surrounded by his family. He and his wife, Clarece, are Jehovah Witnesses.Melvin was born on November 30, 1934 in Uniontown, Kansas to Frank and Leona Ramsey. Mel honorably served his county in the United States Army in the artillery division before becoming one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, perhaps that is where his love of blowing things up came from. After his discharge from the military in 1956, he began his career as a blacksmith and a welder which he did with pride, satisfaction, and more than a bit of mischief.He also enjoyed woodworking and was a true craftsman, always building things that his family would treasure. On April 3, 1971 he married Clarece Maria Craft.Most would say the best part of Mel’s life was spending time with his family. Mel is survived by his wife of 50 years, Clarece; their chidren, Lea (Leona) Ramsey, Jeff Craft, Vickie (Ron) Hayes, and Linda (Mike) Merckx; their grandchildren, Elaina Ramsey, David Gillie, Ryan Gillie, Bethany Ianuzzi, Kaylena Ianuzzi, Joshua Craft, Jessica Craft, Jacqueline (Mickie) Smith, Dennaie Hayden, Doug Bailey, DuellBailey, Destin Robbins, Elizabeth Merckx, Maddox Merckx, Lanxton Merckx, CorbinHarris, and Kyah Harris; 22 great grandchildren and 1 great-great-granddaughter. He was preceded in death by his parents, 3 brothers, 1 sister, his daughter BonnieKarla (David) Haney, and grandchildren Daylon Beeks and Rendell Harris.In keeping with Mel’s wishes all services will be private. Stemm-Lawson-Peterson Funeral Home, 1531 Cobblestone Blvd. Elkhart, IN 46514 is assisting the Ramsey family.   Online condolences may be made to the family at www.stemmlawsonpeterson.com