Rex Eugene Melton

Teachers like Rex are few and far between. He was tough but fair, and made his classes enjoyable for me. I feel that he taught me that I was expected to do better that I thought was possible which has helped me work to the best of my ability rather than settle for just okay. I did not stay in the forestry profession but it still holds interest to me. He will be one of the legends of Penn State for me forever. A true gentleman. Larry Serene class of 1974

Rex's dendrology class was tough, but I loved it. I remember one field trip when I asked Rex if he could identify a tree off in the distance by its silhouette, and he did! It was a hickory. Now I drive my kids nuts asking them what kind of trees we are looking at.

I found Rex to be a kind, patient and knowledgable man.

John
Forest Science '73

There is a passage that says when a man passes, he is gone and his place knows him no more. As long as there are Penn State foresters from the 50's, 60's, 70's and 80's, Rex will be remembered for both the mentor and the teacher that he was. Maybe some of us will make contributions to the people and the profession like he did. Go with grace.

I was saddened to learn of Rex Melton's death. He was one of my forestry instructors at Mont Alto in 1950-51, and at Penn State in 1952.

I learned a lot about forestry from Rex Melton, and not just the book-learning about the science. He taught with a practical approach, and took students out into the woods to actually do the work on the ground. That was a great way to learn. That hard work and real-life experience benefitted me tremendously in my later career.

Thank...

I was so very happy to see Dawn and Mr. Melton at my mother's funeral a few years ago. It was a thoughtful gesture that I won't forget. Sally and I spent many happy times with the Meltons, picking berries, riding Freddy, playing in the JVHS band, eating honey - you name it and we did it. We were all so very lucky to have such a great place to grow up. I'll be thinking of all of you at what I know is a very sad time. Susie

I'm saddened to learn of Rex's passing. He played a critical role in my life by accepting me as a graduate student. His decision was based on my performance as an officer in Vietnam. He did not tell me of his military experience. His affection for Mont Alto is mine as well. Praise God for his long and fruitful life and love for his family. My special condolences to decedents who will never know the his love personally.Bill Hoover, West Lafayette, IN

Warm condolences to all the Meltons from Barbara Bell Cooper. We Bell Gurlz have memories of many happy times growing up with you . All us girls had the same haircuts !! We were lucky to have loving gifted parents. I know you'll miss him. Barbara

Rex Melton made my Penn State experience one of the finest of my life. When things were no going well Rex was the person I visited….and rarely did we talk about the problem. We talked about life. What an incredible mentor! I will always look back to my time spent with Rex with the greatest fondness. God Bless you Rex.
Joe
Forest Science 1988

I am greatly saddened to hear of the passing of Rex. He was a very good and sincere man, of that there is no doubt. I won't ever forget him.