MELVIN "MEL" LEWIS CHRISTIAN

October 7, 1959 - February 19, 2021

MELVIN LEWIS CHRISTIAN Mel was born in Madison WI on October 7th, 1959 to Ruth and Victor (Bearcat) Christian and was the 4th of 8 children. He worked hard alongside his Father and Brothers at Schiltz Farms and graduated from Caledonia High School in 1977. Mel enjoyed the art of auto body work and received his degree from South East Technical College. He worked at Walt Hammond Buick for three years, found himself dedicating 33 years to Kwik Trip Corporation, and then worked as a Waste Management Professional with Onopa Services on the Fort McCoy base. He also enjoyed bartending at The American Legion Post 595 and Pete’s Bar where lifelong friendships were created. He married Allison Conrad (Eglinton) in 1979, they later divorced. He was then joined in marriage with Mary Hagen (Anderson) in 2008. Mel was not a man of few words! He always had a story or a joke to tell. His sense of humor and the personal nicknames he gave were just a small piece of the goodness and fun he shared with all. It was obvious to all who knew him that he was so proud of his family and cherished all times spent together, especially camping and making memories around a bonfire. Hunting, Fishing, Golfing and Bowling were a few of so many other activities he took joy in. He was a Minnesota Sports enthusiast; his dedication belonged to the Vikings and whoever’s playing the Packers! On Friday, February 19th, 2021 Melvin unexpectedly passed away at the age of 61 of an aortic dissection. He is survived by his wife of 12 years, Mary, his children Rachel (Christopher) Bjerke, Chelsey (Andrew Grochowski) Christian, Brandon (Kylie) Christian, Thomas Hagen, Nicki (Michael Martell) Hagen; grandchildren Christian, Roland, Gavin, Harper, Veronica (baby boy due in March), Trystan, Bentley, Cali and Rylee. He is also survived by brothers Al (Annette), Jeff (Trish), Kurt (MaryAnn), Pat (Judy), Mark (Stacey), sister Teresa Holland and many nieces and nephews. Melvin was preceded in death by his parents, a sister Rosemary, a brother in law Dean Holland, a nephew Joseph Holland, a niece Allee Christian and his granddaughter Clara Jane Bjerke. A celebration of life visitation will be held 2:00-5:00p.m at Four Seasons Community Center, Caledonia MN, on Saturday, February 27th Due to Covid restrictions, social distancing will be practiced and wearing a mask will be required. Condolences may be sent to: Family of Melvin Christian McCormick Funeral Home 205 E. Main Caledonia, MN 55921