Melvin Grayson

Melvin Jay Grayson, better known as Mel-the-Great, died at the young age of 100 1/2. Mel-the-Great gave himself that nickname after his first great-grandchild was born in 1998. He never met a stranger because within two minutes of meeting he had already told them two jokes. Mel proudly was as an inaugural member of the United States Air Force and served in World War II. Mel's lifetime was filled with family, friendships and adventures. He traveled to 45 different countries, some of them even welcomed him a second time.
He was predeceased in death by his wife of 51 years, Jan Cooper Grayson; his daughter, Susana Seiderman Blake; his brother, Arnold Grayson, and his sister Ruth Silverman. He is survived by daughter Doreen Blake and spouse, Ron; granddaughter Aimee Oelrich and spouse Ivan; granddaughter Allison Shinn: grandson Erik Blake and spouse Darcy McKinnon; grandson Scott Blake and spouse Sarah. He has five beloved great-grandchildren, Nick Oelrich and fiancé Faith Turinese; Ashley Oelrich Barnes and her spouse, Tucker; Grace Oelrich, Jeremy Shinn and Jessica Shinn. He is also survived by his baby sister, Marilyn Tetenbaum.
Mel-the-great was laughing with all of us until a few hours before his death. Please send donations in his name to Haven Hospice.