MELTON, Alan (Bud)

Arizona Republic (Phoenix AZ) Saturday, August 25, 2012 Alan Melton (Bud), age 82, passed away peacefully August 22, 2012 surrounded by family. Bud was born on February 3, 1930 in Upland, CA to Thomas and Anna Melton. He served in the U.S. Navy. Bud began farming in Chino, CA prior to moving to Buckeye, AZ in 1958 where he resided until his passing. Bud was one of the pioneer farmers of Harquahala Valley, AZ where he cleared raw desert land, drilled wells and established a large cotton farm in the 1950's which remains family operated to this day. Bud's most joyous days were spent with family and friends; racing, hunting, fishing and flying. Bud was preceded in death by his loving wife, Joann. He is survived by his son Jerry Melton (Valorie) of Arlington, AZ, daughter Cindy Shawler of Wickenburg, AZ, son Steve Melton of Buckeye, AZ and step-daughter Sande Mendoza of Buckeye, AZ; his sister Dorothy Bissell of Paso Robles, CA and many beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Services in celebration of Bud's life will be held at 10:30am on Tuesday, August 28th at the First Southern Baptist Church of Buckeye, 405 N 3rd Street, Buckeye, AZ. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in honor of Bud to Hospice of Arizona Foundation, 19820 N 7th Ave., Suite 130, Phoenix, AZ 85027.