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Mel Auckerman

11/18/1952 - 05/13/2010

Mel Auckerman obituary, 11/18/1952-05/13/2010

BORN

11/18/1952

DIED

05/13/2010

Mel Auckerman Obituary

AUCKERMAN, MEL "Uncle Mel" (Age 57) Passed away peacefully on May 13, 2010. Mel was born on November 18, 1952 in Greensburg PA and his family moved to Spokane in 1956. Mel met the love of his life in 1973 and they were married in 1987. Mel's love of auto racing influenced his life and family, beginning with his dad, continuing on with his brothers, mentoring his son, daughter and nephews, and leaves behind a live-and-well ongoing legacy with his grandchildren. He enjoyed racing in many different classes over the years, including demos, street and super stocks and Fever 4's. Mel also enjoyed bowling, both competitively and recreationally. He was able to travel the Northwest and was honored to be awarded the PBA Regional Rookie of the Year in 1988. Mel enjoyed life to its fullest every day. He loved and cherished his family and friends. He was deeply loved and will be greatly missed, more than words can express. Mel is survived by his wife Ida, son Terry (Kristina), daughter Melanie (Myke), grandsons Austin, Brayden and Trystin, granddaughters Aaliyah and Terranne, mother Nellie, sister Nancy and brother Cal (Kathie). Other extended family includes numerous in-laws, aunts and uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. Mel was preceded in death by his father Al, brothers Ron and Dave, sister Lynn and granddaughter Lexi. Visitation will be May 17th from 3-8 pm; May 18th and 19th from 12-8 pm at Hazen & Jaeger Funeral Home, 1306 N Pines. Funeral services will begin at 2:00 pm on Thursday, May 20th at Hazen & Jaeger. A celebration of Mel's life will be held at The Last Lap, 13524 E Sprague, following the service. Donations in lieu of flowers can be made in Mel's name at any Sterling Savings Bank.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Spokesman-Review from May 16 to May 20, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Mel Auckerman

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janni hudson morehouse

May 9, 2011

been 1 yr,since u left ;( just thinking of u ...u are missed so much Mel

Bob & Sue

June 15, 2010

Mel, our entire family misses you.Your
smile-your wit-your love of all the
activities you participated in.Racing
brought us together, but friendship kept us together and will forever.

Linda Armstrong

June 9, 2010

Well Mel, it has taken us some time to write in here because we still can't believe that you are gone. The holes in our hearts just don't seem to be mending as the days go by. You are the kind of friend that comes in someones life and acts more like a brother. I can see your smile when I think of you & Ida driving around in the 38 Dodge. The times that we spent going places in your van. Watching our kids grow up together to become awesome adults and still giving us all backtalk, then smiling when they weren't looking. You were and still are a part of the "A Racing Team". Mel, we can't say goodbye and won't say goodbuy. We will just say, "UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN". GOD BLESS YOU.
Love, The Armstrongs

In Memory of the Champion Mighty 05

Lisa

June 8, 2010

Mel, you are amazing! I have never seen so many people who have been touched by one man. You are still with us every day and we all still love you very much and miss you even more. Keep showing us those signs and we will visit you soon. This picture is only a small portion of those people you touched.

happy anniversary honey

ida auckerman

June 7, 2010

Honey i could not do this on the day but i can now happy 23rd anniversary i hold you close to my heart every day we will have another 23 years some day i will always love you even with a broken heart but that will mend when we meet agin at our new house you have waiting for me and our family and some day it will be full again

love Ida

Jenny Broadhead

May 21, 2010

Mel,
I didn't know you or your family, but you sure seemed to have a HUGE effect and impact on my family, the Kellogg's. Thank you for that and to your family, I am very, very sorry that you lost your husband, father, grandfather, great and friend. He is with our dear Lord and will be waiting to see you all again someday~~ My condolences to you all.

My prayers and Blessings are with you!
Jenny(Kellogg)Broadhead
Wyoming

Hathaway Family

May 21, 2010

Auckerman family, a poem for you....

I am never alone

You are with me.

The nights may sometimes stretch long and lonely

Deep down I know

You are with me.

When things are not quite right

Life often seems like a fight

I know, no matter what

You are with me.

When I need a shoulder to cry on

Or someone to uplift me

All I need to do is close my eyes

You are with me.

There is love, understanding and warmth around me

From the moment I wake up, and especially whilst i sleep

I am never alone...

You are with me....

We love you!!
Hathway Family

Steve Reynolds

May 20, 2010

Just wanted to let you guy's know, that. Your family holds a special place in my heart since you were pretty much the first people in Spokane I met and became friends with. When I moved here and made the mistake of sitting in your section at Stateline. (best "mistake" I ever made) You guys made me feel comfortable which made me keep comin back. (now look what you've done) I will miss seeing the 05 up towards the front of the pack, and that infectious smile. You'll never be forgotten. RIP Mel. See you at the race track in the sky my friend.

May 20, 2010

I am sorry for Terry and Auckerman family. Mel Auckerman is gone now. Nickalus and my mom Brenda from Stateline races will miss him. I still have the trophy that Mel gave me when he won the trophy dash. Mel was one of a kind greatest racer ever known. Love you Terry and Auckerman Family. Sorry we missed the funeral but nickalus had testing and been sick. Wish we could have made it. If you are racing Terry hopefully you will win the trophy dash next Wednesday and we will try to be there to cheer you on. Sorry we didn't make it out to the races yet this year to see Mel race.

Nickalus Preston-Kramer

May 20, 2010

I am sorry for Terry and Auckerman family. Mel Auckerman is gone now. Nickalus and my mom Brenda from Stateline races will miss him. I still have the trophy that Mel gave me when he won the trophy dash. Mel was one of a kind greatest racer ever known. Love you Terry and Auckerman Family. Sorry we missed the funeral but nickalus had testing and been sick. Wish we could have made it. If you are racing Terry hopefully you will win the trophy dash next Wednesday and we will try to be there to cheer you on. Sorry we didn't make it out to the races yet this year to see Mel race.

May 20, 2010

To the Auckerman family,
"Although it's difficult today to see beyond the sorrow,
May looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow."

Toni Jefferson

May 20, 2010

Mel, I remember watching you bowl those perfect games like it was just yesterday. You are loved and will be missed by anyone that had the pleasure of knowing you. R.I.P Friend

Ida, Melanie, Terry and the rest of the Auckerman family, my thoughts and my prayers are with you all at this difficult time.

"While we are mourning the loss of our friend, others are rejoicing to meet him behind the veil." --John Taylor

Arlan Kelley

May 20, 2010

R.I.P. my friend, you will be greatly missed, my heart and prayers go out to your family, friends and fans. I was at the track for my 1st time racing a few years back in my purple #61 capri, I qualified 2nd fastest in the hobby compacts, then my car broke and YOU and a few other drivers came over to help, you took time out of your night to help someone you didnt even know and that made my night even though we couldn't fix my car. That night I met you I knew you were a great person. Now go race that racetrack in the heavens, god speed my friend, I will remember you forever.

Ken Willoughby

May 20, 2010

i know i wasn't known very well in the auckerman family. but being in the pits right next to his stall with the great #05 filling its vast emptiness.you just got the vibe that this is going to be a good race because he was there.RIP Mel Auckerman "it's only a left turn to heaven"

Jim Kellogg

May 20, 2010

Mel was a hero in many young eyes and will remain a hero in my old eyes.

Bev Stamper

May 20, 2010

Melvin will be missed more than words can say! He was not only my Brother In-Law, he was one of my best friends. Until we meet again, I will keep him in my heart and thoughts. Rest In Peace, my friend, I love You!

From your friends and fellow racers

With Love

May 20, 2010

The Mel Auckerman Hero Card

Michael Baker

May 20, 2010

Today is the Day we all say our goodbyes.It has been an honor to provide the friends of the Auckermans a glimpse of Mels Life.Mel and his family adopted us into thier life and memories abound. God Speed my friend.

Edwin Leong

May 20, 2010

I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.

May 19, 2010

In My Pocket

I have memories in my pocket.
They rattle among the change.

My memories of you are treasures I carry wherever I go.

They are stored in bits and pieces, parts of a beautiful whole
They give me comfort when I think I am alone.

Yes, I have memories in my pocket, like so much other stuff I keep there.

But of all the treasures I have, it’s the memories of you that are the most precious.

Wendy King

May 19, 2010

Mel you will always be in our hearts and minds and will be for many years to come. Kyle and Kelsey have many fond memories of you that they will cherish. It was great to know you and your family. My heart goes out to Ida,Melanie, Terry and all who loved you soo much.Keep smiling and soon we will meet again.

Stacy Soom (PITA)

May 19, 2010

In your hours and days of sadness, may this be a reminder of Mel's never-ending love and admiration of everyone that touched him and whom he touched back.

TO THOSE I LOVE AND THOSE WHO LOVE ME

When I am gone, release me, let me go,
I have a new garden that I must grow.
You mustn't tie yourself to me with tears,
Be thankful for our many beautiful years.
I gave you all my love and you can only guess,
How much you gave me love and great happiness.
I thank you for the love you each have shown,
But now it's time to travel on alone.
So grieve a while for me, if grieve you must,
Then let your grief be comforted by trust.
It's only for a time that we must part,
So treasure the memories within your heart.
I won't be far away, for life goes on,
So if you need me, call and I will come.
Though you cannot see or touch me, I'll be near,
And if you listen with your heart you will hear,
All my love around you, so soft and dear.
And then when you must come this way alone,
I’ll greet you with a smile and say “Welcome Home”.

May 19, 2010

Lisa Peaker

May 19, 2010

Mel, tonight we will all be together and I know you will be there with us. I wish this day would not have come so soon. There is nobody at the track that has treated me like you and your family and not having my family here in town made you and your wonderful family my family. I miss you! I keep trying to smile because you always smiled no matter what, but the tears won't stop. Thank you so much for everything and for being a good friend for Michael.

Tammy Soom

May 19, 2010

"If tears could build a stairway,And memories a lane,I'd walk right up to Heaven and bring you home again."
Uncle Mel,in this life we only have one chance to live it the way we want to; i am so happy you filled your life with the people and things that made you the happiest. Everyday is new adventure, thank you for teaching me that. I love and miss you so much!

Aaliyah Spessard-Auckerman

May 19, 2010

Love you Papa Mel and miss you so much!!

Terranne Rose Spessard-Auckerman

May 19, 2010

Love you Papa Mayo!!!!

RORY PRESNELL

May 18, 2010

IT WONT BE THE SAME WITHOUT YOU IN THE 05 CAR ON WED. NIGHT. I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER ALL THOSE DERBYS TOGETHER. MY HEART GOES OUT TO YOU FRIEND AND YOUR FAMILY.

Kathy Wilson

May 18, 2010

Mel I miss you so much. You came into my Life 38 years ago. I have so many good memories and I was not ready to stop building them. The pain that I fill right now hurts and I know that in time it will get better. Mel I know you knew how much I Loved you and I know how much you Loved me. My Love for you does not end here. I will see you again. Please be my Sister's Angle. And give all of are Loved Ones a KISS for Me.

Linda Jouppe

May 18, 2010

R.I.P Mel. You will be missed by many!You and your family are in my prayers.

Donna(Wilson) Powers

May 18, 2010

My heart goes out to Ida, his wife & all of the family & friends that will fill the void of missing Mel...

Corey Husk

May 18, 2010

Miss you Melvin....

May 18, 2010

ida terry melinie nelli all of u mel was one of a kind im glad i had the the chance to know him and ida the whole auckerman family rip my friend

Bob Schoen

May 18, 2010

Have known Mel for 15 + years. Our children grew up watching him race. My oldest son started racing 4 years ago. Mel was always the one who helped guide him and helped teach him "the line" to follow. My wife also raced with him for many years. Again always helped any way he could. His kind hearted spirit and constant joking kept things light even when you where upset about something that had happened on the track. There will never be another like him. A good friend. An awsome driver. And a great competetor. We will miss trading paint with you. 05 FOREVER!

Kristina Hatton

May 18, 2010

We love you Papa and miss you so much!

terry auckerman

May 17, 2010

dad i miss you so much eveyday that goes by i sit here and wait for the call to see if the car is done or how school went or just to bs and talk about the day i love you oh and keep makin trystin smile i know its you hes looking at thank you for everything

Wade Owens

May 17, 2010

Nellie & Nanci - It's been a long time since we have visited and I saw this obituary. This is such a painful time and event. Mel's Memories will live on in your hearts. Our thoughts and prayers for you and your family.

Wade Owens & Wayne Maley

Marylin Young

May 17, 2010

In this time of great sadness may your wonderful memories keep you all strong. Sorry to hear of your loss Ida & family. I always looked forward to visiting with Mel when I was lucky enough to see him at bowling tournaments. He was a great guy and will be missed.

Nicci Christenson

May 17, 2010

to the family, it has been many many years..... Melanie and i were just talking about my dad not knowing what the future had in store, i am so sorry... Melanie, Terry, Ida, CJ you are in my prayers!!!!!!! MEL YOU WILL BE MISSED

Tim & Tammy Rupinski

May 17, 2010

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Arianne Auckerman

May 17, 2010

I was told that this was going to get easier so, I thought I would wait to share my thoughts until the hurt passed. But, everyday the pain in my heart worsens so, I am writing you now. Uncle Mel, you are one of the most amazing men that ever walked the face of this earth. You were always someone that CJ could turn to no matter what the situation. There was a bond between the two of you that could never and will never be broken. You have always treated me as though I was your flesh and blood and for that I will always be grateful. This is not going to be easy - people like you only come around once in a lifetime (if we are lucky) and we are so very lucky to have known and been loved by you. WE LOVE AND MISS YOU UNCLE MEL!!!

My Daddy and I

Melanie Davis (Auckerman)

May 17, 2010

Dad, I will write for Days and Days to tell you how I feel and know that you are there to help me and guide me. You are so missed each and every moment. We are keeping mom strong and trying to keep us strong at the same time. We Love you and I'm hurting each day I don't get to call you @ lunch just to talk... :(

Judy Clemons

May 17, 2010

Ida, My heart goes out to you and your family. My prayers are with you in this hard time. I know what you are going through just losing my husband 3 months ago. I will say a prayer for you. I would like to talk to you and have lunch in a few months when you feel up to it. My John will help take care of your Mel...God Bless
Judy

Brandon Trowbridge

May 16, 2010

Ida, Terry and Melanie my thoughts are with you during this trying time. Mel was a great person and I have many fond memories of bowing and playing softball with Mel while in the presence of all your company. Please accept my sincerest condolences.

Linda Knoll

May 16, 2010

What an awesome man you were, Mel. I'm so glad I got the chance to know you, and there were so many fun times together. We all will meet again someday!

Sandy Jenkins

May 16, 2010

Mel, my heart is so sad to know the loss of a cousin and friend. I will always remember the laughter and fun of the "first new days at Central Valley"... thanks for being there! You will always be loved and missed in all of our "racing" hearts.
Love your cousin Sandy Jenkins

Randy Bergheim

May 16, 2010

Mel, words can not express the loss I feel. Not being able to call or stop by to see you.

janni hudson morehouse

May 16, 2010

While we are mourning the loss of our friend, others are rejoicing to meet him behind the veil.....MEL, YOU ARE A GREAT MAN,I WILL MISS YOUR BIGGGG SMILE,THE SOUND OF YOUR VOICE...I LOVE YOU BUD

Rob/Bev Hosek

May 16, 2010

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

Pamela Wilson

May 16, 2010

Smellie, George and I are going to miss you more then words can express. I look forward to seeing and hearing from you about the raceway in the sky. Love you Pam and George

May 16, 2010

Mel,
I wish we could live two more life times, maybe by then I could find a way to repay you. Thank You.

Terry Spessard

janni hudson morehouse

May 15, 2010

For someday in heaven
We will all meet once again
.And we will reunite.
And see your glowing smile once again

....RIP:MEL AUCKERMAN

"Pain passes over time,
Good memories last for a lifetime."
janni hudson morehouse

Lindsay Brannan-Oxford

May 15, 2010

Rest in peace Mel you will be missed by many.

Kaishea Hudson-Bonner

May 15, 2010

RIP MEL! Tell my dad I said HI and hope u kids are havin a blast up there! Ride that race car in the sky til the wheels fall off buddy! Love to all of the Auckermans and extended family and friend, he will be greatly missed.

Loren & Jeanne Bartle

May 15, 2010

Our thoughts and prayers are with you all now and in the days ahead. May you find comfort in knowing that everyone is here for you.
Rest in peace Mel. We will miss you.

dave schleve

May 14, 2010

rest in peace mel.........

Melanie Auckerman-Davis

May 14, 2010

Hi Daddy, I love you and I miss you so very very much

Lisa Peaker

May 14, 2010

Mel, you are going to be missed by many! Left turns only for one of my biggest heroes. You are a great inspiration and the memories of your smiles and laughter will be with me forever.

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