MELVIN “MEL” HAND, JR.

He was born January 25, 1950, in Wheeling, WV, to the late Melvin H. Sr and Eileen (Clemons) Hand.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his mother in-law, Norma Jean Ogden and his nephew, Brad McFadden.

Mel was a 1967 graduate of Warwood High School. After high school, he enlisted in the United States Army and proudly served his country during the Vietnam War. Mel worked for Kroger before starting his own Insurance Adjusting Company, Hand and Associates. Mel was a dedicated insurance adjuster for more than 40 years. For 18 years, he served on the board of directors of Panhandle Insurance. He also worked many years of his career with Motorist Mutual and Municipal Mutual.

Mel had a love and passion for Golf. He was well known throughout the valley for his impeccable golf skills and many tournament wins through- out his lifetime, including the 1967 WV state individual golfing championship at the age of 17. Throughout his life, he also enjoyed flying airplanes, boating and driving his sports car.

Mel was a loving and caring man with a great sense of humor and very generous heart who would do anything for anyone. His endless drive and determination were apparent in all he accomplished throughout his life, and his dedication to his family and career was undeniable. He will be greatly missed by his family and all who loved him.

Mel is survived by his loving wife, Cheri Hand; his children, Troy (Emily) Hand, Nikki Papp (Mike Ecker) and Janna Schorr (Ryan Walton); his sister, Connie (Bruce) Shook; four grandchildren, Adalynn and Briggs Hand and Ian Schorr and Mason Walton; three sister’s in-law, Vicky Burns, Karen (Frank) McFadden and Brenda (Tom) Kovalski; nieces and nephews, John (April), Lisa, Terri, Doug, Stephanie (Kenny), Shannon (Rob), Chad (Jayna), Kerri and Tommy; several great- nieces and great- nephews; great friends, Shelly and Lance and his loving pets, his dog, Lassie and two cats, Socks and Gray.

A celebration of life will be held in the future for family and friends.

Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Borkoski Funeral Home, Tiltonsville, OH. Online condolences may be offered at www.borkoski funeralhomes.com