MELVIN LOVELL

Melvin Joseph Lovell, 84, of Martins Ferry, OH passed peacefully surrounded by his loving family Monday, April 16, 2018.

He was born April 7, 1934 in Tiltonsville, OH, a son of Sylvia (Martie) and Ernest Lovell.

Preceding him in death were two sisters, Helen Supinski and Ruth Lovell; three brothers, Ernest Lovell, Edward Lovell, and Harry Hill.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 60 years, Irene (Buonamici) Lovell; his sister, Elsie Mackey; two sons, Joe (Diane) Lovell of Martins Ferry, and Mark (Heather) Lovell of Mechanicsburg, PA; five treasured grand children, Kristina Lovell, Christopher Lovell, Gary Messer, Travis Lovell, and Trevor Lovell; one beloved great-grandchild, Pierre Lovell; a loving daughter- in-law, Tammy Graham; one loving Godson, Mark Horvath; many nieces and nephews; many special, close friends; and one adored four-legged best friend, Domino.

Melvin graduated from Warren Consolidated High School, class of 1953. He worked for Wheeling Pittsburgh Steel and retired after 38 years of service.

He was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church where he served on the church council, served as a deacon, and served on the Tuesday work crew.

He was a member of the Alert Engine Martins Ferry Fire Department and in his early years, a member of the Martins Ferry Emergency Squad. He was a member of the Martins Ferry Elks, the Bridgeport Eagles, and Mt. Pleasant Hunting Club. He also helped start the Rayland Fire Department.

He adored his family and loved to cheer on his grandchildren in any activity they participated in. He loved to hunt, fish, golf, bowl, and play cards with his buddies. He enjoyed rooting for the Pittsburgh Steelers, Penguins, and Pirates. He was an avid NASCAR fan; he especially loved Dale Earnhardt and Dale Earnhardt, Jr. He could be found on Friday nights rooting on the Purple Riders.

All who knew him will never forget his kindness, generosity, compassion, and his wonderful sense of humor. His wife, children, and grandchildren meant everything to him! He will be remembered with so much love and laughter that their lives and the lives of all they touch will be better for knowing him.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Keller Funeral Home, 615 Hanover St., Martins Ferry where friends will be received Friday 2-8 p.m. Funeral service will be held at the funeral home Saturday, April 21, 2018 at 10:30 a.m. with Rev. William O. Webster, Jr. officiating.

Interment will follow at Holly Memorial Gardens, Pleasant Grove, OH.

Memorial contributions can be made to Daily Bread Center, P.O. Box 416, MF, OH 43935 or the Belmont County Animal Shelter 45244 National Rd. W, St. Clairsville, OH.

The Martins Ferry Fire Dept. will hold services at the funeral home Friday at 7 p.m. followed by the Elks Lodge at 7:15 p.m.

Condolences to the family may by signing the guest book at www.keller funeralhome.com.

A special thank you to Valley Hospice for their compassionate care of our loved one.