BIGGS, Melvin (Mel) Charles, Sr.

Silver Creek Mortuary, Taylor, Arizona Melvin Charles Biggs Sr. (October 14, 1922 - June 22, 2011) On the morning of June 22, 2011 our beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend, and just all around big hearted Melvin (“Mel”) left this mortal world to join his family. Mel is a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints which he served in many capacities from teacher to member of a bishopric. He found no task beneath him, and he would put his whole heart into whatever was asked. Late in his life the only reason he wouldn’t be found with a broom in his hand was because of his disabilities – something that haunted him the whole time. Mel was preceded in death by his parents: Thomas and Blanche, his two brothers: Thomas and George, his two sisters: Nell and Charlotte, and finally his beloved companion Orciabell (who everyone knew as Tiny). He was the last of his family to leave, and he is no doubt enjoying their company again. He is mourned by his surviving family - three children: Chuck, Marilynn, and Karon, 14 grandchildren, and 45 great-grandchildren. Mel is veteran of World War II having served in the army as a member of the 158th Infantry Combat Team (the “Arizona Bushmasters”), a reserve unit from the Arizona National Guard. He enlisted in April 1940, and he had to lie about his age by giving the incorrect year of birth in order to be accepted. His tour of duty took him to several places in the Pacific in the war against Japan. He will be honored by an honor guard from American Legion Post 126. He never talked much about his experiences other than the usual mischief that a group of soldiers would get into, but he never lost his sense of patriotism which he inspired in his children and grandchildren. Mel was born in Peoria on Oct 14, 1922 under unusual circumstances. His mother, Blanche, had been on a trip visiting his father who was working in New Mexico. She asked the conductor to stop the train they were riding there in Peoria. A kindly restaurant owner helped her to a back room in his restaurant where Mel made his appearance to this world, and the rest, as they say, is history. He lived in Lehi and Hillside before he enlisted in the army. After his return he met the love of his life, and they were married. Following several temporary homes they settled in south Phoenix. His job with Arizona Public Service took him around the state including Wickenburg, Yuma, Parker, Salome, and Snowflake. It was in Snowflake that he retired. They moved to Missouri and back. They lived in two homes in Mesa before finally moving in with their daughter, Karon, in Gilbert due to his and his wife’s failing health. They were later living with his daughter, Lynn, in Taylor when his eternal companion, Tiny, passed away. Mel was still living with Lynn when he met with his demise on the morning of Jun 22, 2011. He moved to his final resting place in the Snowflake Cemetery at 6:00 pm, Saturday June 25, 2011. Goodbye Mel, Dad and Grandpa. We all love you and miss you. Until we meet again in Paradise. Arrangements by Silver Creek Mortuary, Taylor, AZ. If you would like to leave a thought or condolence for the family, please visit www.silvercreekmortuary.net