David J. Melan, Sr., age 96, of Laceyville, PA passed away on Monday morning January 27, 2025 at the Embassy of East Mountain Nursing Home in Wilkes-Barre, PA.

Born on May 14, 1928 in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late Edward J. (d. 1964) and Leola E. Smith Melan (d. Sept. 10, 1996).  Growing up in Wilkes-Barre, David attended St. Nichols High School and graduated with the class of 1946.  After graduation, he joined the Marine Corps where he would serve his country as a Sergeant for 8 years.  David then decided to enlist in the Air Force where he served as a Tech Sergeant with Strategic Air Command for another 14 years.  David's 20 plus years of Armed Forces experience saw him serve during the World War II, the Korean War, and Vietnam War eras and earn numerous commendations and medals.

After his service time was completed, David found employment as an auto mechanic and electrician for Benscoter's Trucking and Donahue's Auto Electric.  When not working, he enjoyed hunting, fishing and working on old machinery, especially his green Oliver tractor.

Surviving David are his children, David Melan, Jr. of Dushore, PA, Eileen Dymond (Dave) of Tunkhannock, PA, Michael Melan of West Auburn, PA, Colleen Newell of Springville, PA, and William Melan (Amy) of Tunkhannock, PA; 17 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and many great-great grandchildren.  He is also survived by his siblings, Marilyn Bishop of West Auburn, PA and Leola Klinges of Duryea, PA.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Joyce Melan (m. Aug. 24, 1951; d. Sept. 19, 2017); his sons, Edward Melan (d. Feb. 10, 1998) and Kevin Melan (d. Jan. 22, 2024); his grandchildren, Michelle Melan (d. June 27, 1994) and Anthony Melan (d. June 28, 1994); his great-grandchild, Megan Kovolenus (d. May 31, 2001); his brothers, Edward, Leo, Gene, and Jim Melan; and his daughters-in-law, Betsy Melan (d. Jan 14, 2015) and Judy Melan (d. Oct. 25, 2022).

A Funeral Service for David will be held at the Sheldon Funeral Home, 459 Main St., Laceyville, PA 18623 on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at 11:30 AM with Reverend Charlie Bishop officiating.  Family and friends may call at the funeral home from 10:00 AM until the time of service.

Online condolences may be made at www.SheldonFuneralHomes.com.