David Carl Melin

Obituary
David Carl Melin
September 5, 1939 - July 23, 2024
David Carl Melin, born on September 5, 1939, in Livingston, Montana, peacefully passed away on July 23, 2024, at the Worland Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center. He was the youngest child of Walter John and Marion Agnes (Niles) Melin, joining his four older siblings in a family deeply rooted in the beautiful Paradise Valley of the Yellowstone River.
David's life was filled with dedication and adventure. He graduated from Montana State College with a degree in Agricultural Education, where he distinguished himself as President of the Collegiate FFA Chapter, Co-Manager of the Little International Livestock show, and a member of the Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity. His career began as a Vocational Agriculture teacher in northeastern Montana, where he nurtured a passion for FFA, fostering leadership and public speaking skills among his students.
Throughout his life, David embraced new opportunities with resilience and enthusiasm. From teaching in Missoula County High School to managing operations at Valley Seed Company in Phoenix, Arizona, his commitment to agriculture and community was unwavering. In 1977, he embarked on a 29-year journey with Holly Sugar, advising sugar beet growers across the country and finding fulfillment in his work, particularly during the challenges following the 9/11 attacks.
Beyond his professional achievements, David was a passionate aviator. While he earned his Private Pilot's license in 1974, health issues eventually grounded him. In response, he directed his love of the skies toward obtaining lower heights through piloting remote control (RC) airplanes instead. This lead to organizing annual gatherings of RC pilots and their families across southern California where he was President of the Imperial Valley RC Club, and continuing up into Montana and Wyoming. These "FUN FLY" gatherings became a cherished tradition, blending camaraderie, shared stories, and a deep love for flight.
David's faith was central to his life, nurtured through the Methodist Church where he shared his gift of storytelling and humor with congregations near and far. He fondly recounted tales of his family's pioneering spirit in the Paradise Valley, a legacy he held dear throughout his life.
In 1974, David married Barbara Lee (Parris) Moore, enriching their lives with love and devotion. Together, they moved to Worland in 2012 to be closer to family, where David continued to inspire and connect with his community until his final days.
David Carl Melin leaves behind a legacy of resilience, kindness, and passion for family and community. He will be deeply missed by all those whose lives he touched with his warmth and generosity.
David was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Marion; wife, Barbara; brothers, George and John Melin; sisters, Dorothy Stermitz and Mavis Rogers; grandson, Marcus Garcia.
He is survived by his children, Julie (Steven) Landeros of Tracy, California and Ron (Jennifer) Melin of Kelso, Washington; Les (Bobbie) Moore of Worland and Angela (Alex) Garcia of Salt Lake City, Utah; 12 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held 10:00 AM Saturday, August 24, 2024, at the United Methodist Church with Pastor Kayi Pfoze officiating. Memorial donations may be made to the United Methodist Church. Please send checks to PO Box 524, Worland, Wyoming 82401. Online condolences may be made at www.bryantfuneralhomeonline.com.