Melba Friedel Obituary
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Melba J. Friedel, 93, of Bethalto, passed away on Saturday, September 6, 2025.
She was born in Michael, IL, on December 25, 1931, the daughter of Joseph and Sadie (Hazelwonder) Roth. Melba married Paul G. Friedel in Michael, IL, on November 23, 1949. He preceded her in death on November 7, 1976.
Melba worked as a cook at her daughter's restaurant, Dee-Lux Diner in Roxana for several years alongside her daughters Deb and Dee, and later worked with her grandchildren, Jessica and Bob. She was a devoted member of Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Bethalto. Melba enjoyed cooking and was known for her chicken and dumplings and blackberry pies. She also loved garage sales and taking care of her flowers. Most of all, Melba cherished her time with her family, especially her 32 grandchildren, 56 great-grandchildren, and 9 great-great-grandchildren.
Survivors include her children, Paul (Margie) Friedel of Bethalto, Kathy Flanigan of Arnold, MO, Patricia (Edward) Brown of Cottage Hills, Pam (Michael) Schulte of Jerseyville, Ellen (Don) Compton of Yantis, TX, Sharon (Jeff) Meyerhoff of Springfield, IL, and Mark Friedel of Glen Carbon; and a brother, Joe Roth of San Diego, CA.
Along with her parents, and husband, Paul, she was preceded in death by two daughters, Dee Laux, and Deb Deardeuff; siblings, Alfred (Chick) Roth, Ray (Elfrieda) Roth, Mildred (Ed) Kirbach, Anna Marie (Joe) Retzer, Earl David Roth, and Janet (Bob) Klunk; a sister-in-law, Paula Roth; a grandson, Brian Brown; and a great-grandson, William Deardeuff.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 11, 2025, from 4 to 7 pm, at Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Bethalto. Mass will be on Friday, September 12, 2025, at 10 am, at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Bethalto. Father Michael A. Friedel as celebrant.
Burial will follow at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto.
Memorials are suggested to Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic School.
Online condolences and guestbook may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com.
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727 E Bethalto Blvd, Bethalto, IL 62010
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