Mel G Gogert

Mel Gogert came into this world on February 8, 1933, and left it for his next adventure on December 1, 2023. His childhood years were not easy, but he used those difficulties to build some of his greatest strengths - his independence, self-sufficiency and a sense of humor that never failed him.

As a young man, Mel joined the Navy and became a Hard Hat Diver/Boatswains Mate. This led to a lifelong fascination with submarines, Naval ships and diving. He loved to read books and watch videos about subs and ships. He was extremely proud of his sons, grandsons and great-grandson that served and are currently serving in the Armed Forces.

Mel's spirit of adventure and complete lack of fear to try something new led him to live in many interesting places, finally settling down in Klamath Falls, Oregon.

Those who knew him well and loved him have said that his work ethic was what truly made him the exceptional man that he was, and that it left a lifelong impression upon them. When he visited his children he would look for things to fix, build and make better, and was always the first one there in times of need or trouble, usually with a funny story, and never any judgement. He worked as a truck driver, miner, mechanic and ambulance driver, among many other interesting and diverse occupations. His final venture was as the owner of S&S Manufacturing, and he and Betty built that into a very successful business before retiring. Even in retirement he kept busy "wheeling and dealing", repairing equipment and putting on many a yard sale.

Mel met the love of his life, Betty, in Tonapah, Nevada at the Mizpah Hotel. Betty had ridden the Greyhound bus to Tonapah to visit her sister. Mel was working at a nearby turquoise mine, their paths crossed, and the rest is history. They married in 1975 in Southern California and Mel bravely took on a premade family and worked hard to provide for all of us. He loved Betty with all his heart and would have moved mountains for her. She preceded him in death in 2019 and we know that a joyous reunion has taken place.

Mel leaves his children Bernie (Rosebud) Guthrie, Solomon (Tamara) Guthrie, Melvin Guthrie, Herb Guthrie, Nita Walker, Robert (Tamara) Walker, Russell (Lois) Walker and Katy (Marvin) Reece, and many, many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his faithful little companion Toby, who was never far from his side.

Services will be held on February 16, 2024 at Eagle Point National Cemetery with time to be announced later.

You are missed Mel.

"A Smooth Sea Never Made A Skillful Sailor".