Ishpeming – Melvin A. Eliason, age 88, longtime resident of 265 Prospect St., Ishpeming, passed away on Thursday February 12, 2015 at the Marquette Co. Medical Care Facility where he had resided for the past two years.

Melvin was born February 10, 1927 in Iron River, MI the son of the late William & Fannie (Hendrickson) Eliason. He moved to Ishpeming with his family at age 4 and had resided here since. He was a graduate of the Ishpeming High School, Class of 1945. Melvin served in the United States Army during World War II, being discharged in March of 1947. On Sept. 11, 1948 he married Betty Carlson of North Lake Location.

He was employed by the Cleveland Cliffs Iron Co. at the Mather A Mine for four years under a college student program. He attended Northern Michigan University graduating in 1951 with a business administration degree, accounting major. After college he was employed by Charter Inc. in Ishpeming, which he became a partner in and retired from after 41 years of service.

Melvin enjoyed spending vacations in Florida and spending time at his camp on Little Perch Lake. He was also very active in hunting and fishing any time of the year.

Survivors include his daughter Julie Eliason of Ishpeming, brother Robert (Marlene) Eliason of Ishpeming, sister Anita (Bernard) Mattila of Ishpeming, along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Melvin was preceded in death by his loving wife of 54 years Betty in 2002, his parents and step-mother Selma (Kulju) Eliason, brother William Eliason and sister Elaine Smith.

A private graveside service will be held in the spring at the Ishpeming Cemetery at which time Melvin will be laid to rest with his wife Betty.