1938 – 2016

AUGUSTA — Robert Russell Melcher, 78, passed away Monday, June 20, at the VA Healthcare System in Augusta surrounded by his family.

He was born March 6, 1938, in Claremont, N.H., the son of Edward R. and Laudina M. (Coulombe) Melcher.

He was educated in the schools of Jay and graduated from Jay High School in 1956 and then continued his education at the Auburn Maine School of Commerce, graduating in 1957. He was a veteran who proudly served his country in the U.S. Army until his honorable discharge. On Oct. 6, 1957, he married Rhoda L. Cameron of North Jay.

Over the years, Robert was employed by Norrwock Shoe in North Jay and Norridgewock, Truitt Brothers in Belfast, and Bass Shoe in Wilton and South Portland. He was a member of the American Legion of Skowhegan and a volunteer fire fighter for the town of Norridgewock. Robert enjoyed collecting coins, as well as playing golf, baseball and rag ball with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He also had a strong love for old time country music.

He is survived by his wife, Rhoda L. (Cameron) Melcher of Winslow; children, Robert and Erica Melcher, Dwayne and Ming Melcher, Cindy and Doug Wyman, Jeff and Jenny Melcher, and Anne and Mike Latendresse; grandchildren, Justin and Kelly Melcher, Colleen Melcher, Daryl Wyman, Jimmy and Kristin Melcher, Colette and Kassidy Latendresse; great-grandchildren, Spencer, Brandon and Brooklyn Wyman, Jude Melcher Le and Tanner Melcher; siblings, Terry Bergeron, Edward Melcher Jr., Larry Melcher; and several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents; and sisters, Violet Viotto and Marceline O’Brion.