Melvin Timm

Melvin graduated from Blairsburg High School in 1951 and worked at a chicken packing plant before being hired by Western Electric in Des Moines. Soon after he was drafted into the Korean War. He flew to Camp Pendelton for orientation and spent time in California before transferring to Washington and serving as Captain Hanson’s Jeep driver. He spent 2 years in the service.

He married Ellen Joann Phillips on September 3, 1955. They had four children, Jill (Jim) Wilson, Mark Timm, Kae (Bryon) Leinberger, and Lisa (Pat) Nichols. Their family grew to include 8 grandchildren, Brooke (Jered) Vaske, Kortney (Rocky) Vest, Alexis Timm, Michael (Alaina) Nichols, Evan Timm, Mitchell Timm, Sam (Andrea) Nichols, and Erin Crockford, and 14 beloved great grandchildren.

Melvin worked for Western Electric (which later became AT&T) for 37 years, taking assignments all over the country and being known for his dedication and expertise. They enjoyed three years of living in Boise, Idaho, before returning to Webster City for the remainder of their days.

Their marriage of 71 years was highlighted with caring for their kids and grandkids, U.S. and international travel, Melvin waiting in department store lounges while his wife shopped, and the companionship of several Boston terrier dogs.

In his retirement years, Melvin filled his time with “going to coffee” twice a day. He lost a lot of nickels and did not, in fact, solve any of the world’s problems. But the relationships forged one donut and slice of pie at a time became priceless. Family members lucky enough to be invited along to his coffee group are grateful for the time spent at the table and those dear friends.

Most of all, Melvin was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. There may never be another Papa so generous with John Deere rides and ice cream treats in the freezer. An avid nap taker himself, a sleepy baby had no chance staying awake in the arms of Papa, humming a classic tune in their ear. No matter the driving distance, he could be found on the sidelines of fields, courts, and pools watching his grands and great grands in the activities they loved the most. Although he never met a stranger, he couldn’t help relentlessly teasing every waitress, nurse, or receptionist that crossed his path.

Melvin is survived by his wife, four children, 8 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren, one sister, Ruth Lowry, several nieces and nephews, and the best coffee crew around. He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Clara, and brothers Emmett, John, Jim, and Roland.

The funeral will be held on Saturday, July 25, at 2 p.m. at St. Thomas Aquinas. Coffee and dessert reception with the family to follow.

Melvin leaves behind a legacy of loyalty, hard work, and a love for family that will be forever missed.