Daniel Lee "Dan" Lemelin

MATTHEWS, N.C. -- Mr. Lemelin, of Matthews, N.C., went home to be with his Lord Jesus on April 19, 2011. Dan was born in Waterville, May 3, 1940 to Ray Lemelin and Rose Ferland Lemelin, both now deceased.

Upon graduation from the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy in Boston, he married Sylvia Grey Pennell of Charlotte, N.C.

Dan began his career as a pharmacist in Charlotte and soon became co-owner of Walker's Drug Store. Dan genuinely loved people, sharing his customers' joys and sorrows. He was happy to meet any need one might have no matter how great or small and never considered it an inconvenience. He "retired" as owner of Walker's a few years ago, but his customers soon learned that word was not in his vocabulary, and they were glad because there was more to a visit at Walker's than just picking up a prescription. There was always Dan with his caring eyes and infectious smile walking from behind the counter to give you a hug making you feel special.

His family, and especially his grandchildren, were the joy of his life, and their "Papa" was their delight. Dan had finished his work at the drug store on Tuesday and drove home, where he retired into the arms of his heavenly father.

Dan was preceded in death by his grandson, Dawson Lemelin. Survivors include his wife of 49 years, Sylvia; sons Greg Lemelin and wife Meg of Kannapolis, Jeff Lemelin and wife Christina of Charlotte, and Chris Lemelin and wife Christy of Raleigh; eight grandchildren; two sisters, Marilyn Welsh of Waterville, and Rose Marie Dwyer of Las Cruces, N.M.

The family received guests Saturday, April 23, 2011, at the Calvary Church Chapel in Charlotte at 12:30 p.m. A celebration of Dan's Life followed immediately at 2 p.m. in the Chapel, with Dr. John Munro officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Calvary Church Next Generation Fund, 5801 Pineville-Matthews Road, Charlotte, NC 28226. Condolences may be expressed at www.harryandbryantfuneralhome.com.