Melvin Berkebile

Melvin H. "Mel" Berkebile, 77, of Ohio City, and formerly of Van Wert, passed away at 4:00 PM on Tuesday, March 17, 2020 at Van Wert Health.

Born on April 04, 1942, in Swanton, Ohio, the son of the late Howard L. Berkebile and Anna L. (Barnes) Berkebile. He married the former Deborah A. Waldron, who passed away on February 13, 2008. Together, they shared many years of memories.

Mel worked hard as a school bus driver, at McDonald's, and for the former Brookside Dairy and Hoverman Music Store, respectively. He later retired from Wal-Mart in Van Wert after 15 years of service.

Mel was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Van Wert. He also served as an ordained minister at several northwest Ohio churches for over 12 years.

Mel enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He was an avid gardener and fan of The Ohio State Buckeyes, the Cleveland Browns, and the Cleveland Indians.

Mel has also been a season ticket holder for Van Wert Cougar Basketball and Football since 1983.

Surviving is a son, Nathan (Lucy) Berkebile of Ohio City; grandchildren, Skyler, Tristan, and Stephanie Berkebile; a sister, Nacy Wells of Mason, Michigan; a brother, Lonnie (Carol) Berkebile of Charleston, South Carolina; and many nieces and nephews.

He was also preceded in death by a sister and her husband, Bev (Cecil) Reed.

Because of national health concerns, Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory and the Berkebile family are following directives outlined by Ohio Governor Mike DeWine limiting attendance to the visitation and funeral service to immediate family only. Please reach out to us and we will share your sympathies with Mel's family. As always, you are able to express condolences online at www.alspachgearhart.com. Mel's service will be recorded and posted online at www.alspachgearhart.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Melvin`s memory may be sent to the family.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, 722 S Washington Street, Van Wert, OH 45891.