Milford Frank "Mel" Vanik

Milford Frank "Mel" VANIK Passed away January 31st at Cascade Vista in Redmond at the age of 96. He was born to Anthony and Jennie Seidle Vanik on July 29, 1906 in Cleveland, Ohio. He graduated from the University of Michigan in 1930 with a degree in Aeronautical Engineering and a passion for gas ballooning. In 1936 he married Marie Allen who preceded him in death in 1947. They had one son, Allen Vanik, of Honolulu, HI. Mil met Geraldine (Jeri) Griesel at a Power Squadron course in 1948. They were married at Plymouth Congregational Church in Seattle on September 9, 1949. They had two sons, Dr Richard Vanik of Houston, TX, and R. J. of Bellevue, WA. Mil's career as a senior engineer at Boeing took him all over the world. He and his family lived nine years in Wichita, KS. before returning to the Pacific Northwest. After his retirement he served on the Bellevue City Council from 1972-1978, the last two years as Mayor. His very active life took him on many trips, including crossing the Swiss Alps twice in gas balloons, the first time at the age of 72. In his later years he and Jeri enjoyed cruising and taking trips in their RV. He was a life member of the Lighter than Air Society, Seattle Yacht Club, and QB. Surviving are his wife, his three sons, and his granddaughters Aimee Green (Scott) of Kansas City, MO, Lauren Vanik of Dallas, TX and Lindsay Vanik of Alamo, CA. A Celebration of Life is planned for Sunday, February 23rd from 1 to 3 p.m. at Seattle Yacht Club. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity.