Arthur James Mell

Arthur James Mell

Arthur James Mell, 86 passed away on Wednesday, March 02, 2011 at his home in Shelton Washington surrounded by his family and friends. He was born September 23, 1924 in Olympia, Washington to Eli J.(Bill) Mell and Vera (Westover) Mell.
Art graduated from Olympia High School in 1942. He then went "on the road" with a jazz orchestra as a trombone player. He returned to Shelton in 1943 to join the family business, Mell Chevrolet Co. He continued with the business, becoming its President in 1956. Art was the last one out the door when Mell Motors closed in September of 2010. Additionally, he was owner of the Olympia Oil and Wood Products, later named Olympia Fuel and Asphalt.
He appreciated the community's continued support of the Mell Chevrolet dealership for over 80 years and for the many employees that provided their loyal services. His positive attitude and work ethic continued throughout his life. His daily activity began by vacuuming the showroom floor at 7:30 in the morning. Another daily routine was walking downtown for the mail at 10:00 a.m., greeting friends and customers along the way.
Art and Maxine Mosher were married in 1945. They raised four children and were active in the community, especially 4-H.
He was preceded in death by his father, E.J. Mell; his mother, Vera Hopper and his first wife, Maxine Mell. He is survived by his wife, Liz Mell of Shelton and her family; his children: Kathy Perciful, Olympia; Patty (Jim) Borst, Yakima; Sandy Mell, Olympia; and Jim (JoAnn) Mell, Shelton.
Also surviving Art are his grandchildren Jennifer (Larry) Dagdagan; Amy Borst; Jamie (Jeremy) Ogg; Jeana (Brent) Armstrong and A. J. Mell III. and 5 great-grandchildren.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Providence Hospice for their support and services. A memorial service will be held at the Pavilion at Sentry Park, Shelton on March 19 at 2:00 p.m., officiated by Pastor Ken Nielsen. Arrangements were made through Forest Funeral Home. The family suggests a donation to your favorite charity.