Melvin Earl Campbell

Melvin Earl Campbell, 86, died November 23, 2023, at his home in Rogue River, Oregon. He was born to James and Pauline Campbell on December 14, 1936, in Albion, Illinois where he lived most of his life before moving to Rogue River in 2020.

Melvin was a kind and adventurous man. In his younger days, he worked on the farms, the oil fields, made fuel pumps at Air-tex, did construction and paving; and even drove snowplows clearing major highways after winter storms in Southern Illinois. He also worked for the city of Albion for several years. Melvin was very handy and remodeled homes for his family. He always had a construction project for Julie such as a chicken house, planting trees, and the like when he visited.

His first marriage was to Lilly Harris for 13 years and they had one daughter Julie. He later married Edna Leveque for 37 years until her death. After his daughter Julie got married and had children Melvin always made a point to visit their home across the country at the birth of each great-grandchild.

Melvin dearly loved and was always there for his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He and his grandson Coale got into many a serous card game; holidays and meals were always truly enjoyed together with his entire family. Melvin had many nieces and nephews who loved and thought highly of him. His time with them was precious to him and them.

Melvin was very close to his sister Doris and Charline. They had many long phone conversations. Doris said, “Melvin was a talker and never knew a stranger”. She loved him very much and is grateful for the years they had together.

Melvin had many adventures and stories to share. He lived a full social and active life. He was intelligent, sharp, witty, and caring.

Melvin was a friend to many over the years and was quick to lend a helping hand or just sit, talk, and share.

His last three years were spent with his daughter and her husband Rodger in Rogue River Oregon. They owned a small ranch in the country. Being a town boy, Melvin went to town four or five days a week to fellowship, play cards and shop. Melvin loved to go walk around Walmart, meet people and he had a banana and Honey Bun first thing every morning for breakfast. He was also very much a part of a barn built on the ranch. He would bundle up against the cold and work along with the men. A local Cowboy Church now meets weekly in the barn and Melvin seldom missed a service where he got to know everyone and enjoyed their fellowship. During the week Melvin would often get on his four-wheeler and explore the ranch or ride out to the barn and hangout.

Melvin touched us all in a special way and will be in our thoughts, memories, and hearts always.

Melvin would want us to let all his family and friends know he loved each one and held you all dear in his thoughts right up the end of his earthly life.

Survivors include his daughter Julie (Campbell) Coale and Rodger Coale (Son-in- Law); grandchildren  Amy Sollis & husband Reev Solis, Jackie Walker & husband Josh Walker; great-grandchildren Anna Walker, Coale Walker, Kaira Walker, Chloe Walker; step-family Bill & Debbie Leveque; granddaughter Kelly & Robbie Turner & girls, Steve Leveque and granddaughter Mellissa & Clayton Merrick & Family, Stephen Leveque & Family, Cheryl Leveque & special friend Michael Williams, granddaughter Carla & Doug MIller & son Rick Leveque (Deceased) & Kris Leveque, grandsons Tyler Leveque & Family; Adam & Kiera & Family; sisters Doris Bailey & Charlene Hite.

Proceeded in death by 11 brothers and sister; Parents Jim & Pauline Campbell; and spouse Edna Campbell.

A celebration of life and graveside internment will be announced at a later date.