Russell Charles Melling

Russell Charles Melling, 75, of Sorrento, Florida, passed away Thursday, March 28, 2024. Born in Indianapolis, Indiana, he moved to Florida in 1974 to pursue a career in public health, with Mary Ann by his side. He was an Environmental Manager with the Lake County Public Health Department. Russell was a member of the Audubon Society and the Sierra Club. He was dedicated to improving many environmental issues in Lake County and around Florida, as well as working with the Emergency Response Teams during hurricanes. He was a devoted, loving husband and father, and adored his five grandchildren. He was a passionate bird watcher and avid reader throughout his life. Russell is survived by his wife of almost 50 years, Mary Ann (Ganser) Melling of Sorrento; Son - Aaron (Alana) Melling of Dunedin, FL; 2 Daughters, Lindsay (Garrett) Potter of Mount Dora, FL and Kristina (Robert Smith) Melling of Plant City, FL; 2 Brothers, Robert Melling of Indianapolis, IN and Donald (Jo) Melling of Sorrento, FL; Sister, Linda (David Riddle) Van Spronsen of Burkesville, KY; and 5 Grandchildren, Miles, Anora, Bly, Emmeline & Gia. Arrangements by Harden/Pauli Funeral Home, Eustis, Florida. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to friendsofthelibrarymountdora.com/donate-online/ to honor Russell’s life-long love of learning through literature. A Celebration of Life will be held at Lakeside Inn, Mount Dora, on Sunday, May 5, 2024, from 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm.