Obituary of James L. Melvin

James L. Melvin Jr. October 28, 1924 - September 24, 2006 James L. Melvin, Jr., 81, of Starr Lane, Bethel, formerly of Fairfield Ave, Danbury, devoted husband of the late Florence C. (Gantert) Melvin, died on Sunday, September 24th. He was born in Danbury, on October 28, 1924, son of the late James L., Sr., and Elizabeth (Chuavala) Melvin. He was a graduate of Bethel High School, Class of 1942. Jim was a Veteran of World War II, proudly serving with the United States Army. He was a recipient of the European Middle Eastern Campaign Ribbon with three bronze stars, and two Purple Hearts. He owned and operated Melvin Sign Co. in Danbury; and also the Red, White and Blue Shop in Bethel and Danbury. He was an expert in many fields of antiques and collectibles. He was also an accomplished artist and art historian who was frequently asked to authenticate art work. He was a parishioner of St. Peter Church and enjoyed membership in the Grassy Plain Drum Corp. in Bethel, the Knights of Columbus, and the Bethel Senior Citizen Art Group. Jim was a cherished father, grandfather and great grandfather who loved to spend time with his family. He will be sadly missed by his three sons, James L. Melvin, III and his wife, Debra of Melbourne, Fla., Emil J. Melvin and his wife, Laura, and Robert M. Melvin of Kent; his two daughters, Elizabeth Gallo and her husband Anthony of Orange, and Mary Thommen and her husband James of Bethel; and his ten beloved grandchildren; and five great grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Rosemary Nani of Los Angeles, CA; his brother, Donald Melvin and his wife, Sandra of Florida; as well as several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents and wife, he was predeceased by his brothers, Paul, Richard and John Melvin; and his sister, Sara. Funeral Information A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Peter Church, Danbury on Wednesday, September 27th at 9:30am. Burial in St. Peter Cemetery will follow. The family will receive friends at the Cornell Memorial Home, 247 White Street, Danbury, on Tuesday evening between the hours of 4 and 8pm. Donations Information Memorial Contributions in his memory may be made to the Danbury Hospital Development Fund, Department of Cardiology, 24 Hospital Ave, Danbury, CT. 06810.