Melvyn Gavin

1939 - 2026

Melvyn Dale Gavin, formerly of East Moline, IL, and Hayward, WI, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at the age of 86 at the Levine Home at Hospice of the Valley in Phoenix, AZ, after an extended illness.

A private family viewing was held at Queen of Heaven Catholic Funeral Home prior to a private mass of Christian burial at Christ the King Catholic Church, Mesa, AZ.

Per his wishes, cremation rites were accorded with a private interment to follow at a later date at Queen of Heaven Cemetery, Mesa, AZ.

Melvyn was born on November 22, 1939, in Davenport, IA, the son of George W. Gavin and Bertha (Boduch) Gavin. He graduated from United Township High School in 1957. Melvyn married Marlene Ann Vyncke on January 20, 1962, at St. Anne's Catholic Church, East Moline, IL. He received a welding apprenticeship through Iowa-Illinois Gas & Electric Company in Rock Island, IL. He retired in 2002 from MidAmerican Energy after 43 years of service.

Melvyn loved his family and took great pride in the accomplishments of each of his children. He also loved being outdoors, fishing, and watching wildlife with his little dog, Missy, by his side, especially during his time living in WI.

Melvyn is survived by his wife of 64 years, Marlene Gavin; their three children: Sherri Gavin of IL, Todd (Linda) Gavin of CA, and Dan (Kim) Gavin of TN; grandchildren: Jason (Ashley) Gavin, Austin (Janae) Gavin, Tyler Gavin, Lindsey Rudd, Alec Gavin, Katelyn McCarty, McKenna Gavin, Brayden Gavin; great-grandchildren: Brynlee Gavin, Raelynn Gavin, Cooper Rudd; sister Marcia Tady. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, George Gavin, sister, Diana Jones, and great-grandchild, Cohen Gavin.