The Superior Express -

Melvin D. Zade, 87, formerly from Mankato, died Tuesday, Aug. 10, at the Republic County Hospital, Belleville, Kan. He was born on Sept.25, 1933, in Smith Center, Kan., to William and Ethel (Plank) Zade.

He was a 1951 graduate of Mankato High School. Melvin served in the United States Army and was based in Germany. He was honorably discharged.

Melvin married Betty June Long on Aug. 13, 1956. To this union, two children were born, Dewaine and Susan.

Melvin worked for the Jewell County Highway Department, where he was a foreman on the bridge crew. He retired in 1987 after more than 30 years of service.

He enjoyed working on cars and tinkering in his garage, but most of all he enjoyed his time with his family, friends, beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife, Betty Zade of Belleville; son, Dewaine Zade (Mechele), Hastings, Neb., and their son, Dan Zade (Brittany) and their children, Emma, Elizabeth, and William; a daughter, Susan Zade, Wichita, KS, and her three children, Christina, Tyler, and Phillip.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Ethel and a brother, Earl Zade.

Visitation will be held from 1 to 4 p.m., Friday, Aug. 20, at the Melby Mortuary, Mankato.

Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 21, at the Christian Church of Mankato, Mankato, with Pastor Thaddeus Hinkle officiating.

Inurnment will take place in the Mt. Hope Cemetery, Mankato, at a later time.

Memorial contributions may be given to the Christian Church of Mankato, c/o of Melby Mortuary, P.O. Box 384, Mankato, Kan. 66956. Arrangements are with Melby Mortuary, Mankato. For online condolences, please visit http://www.melbymortuary.com.