James E. Melhorn's Obituary
James E. Melhorn, 70, passed away March 11, 2009 in Huntsville, Alabama, doing what he loved to do, which was fishing.
Visitation will be 4 – 6pm Monday, March 16, 2009 in Moran & Goebel Funeral Home. There are no other services. The family requests casual attire, please. Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association, or the donor’s charity of choice.
James was born April 8, 1938, in Decatur, to George D. and Mary E. McQuality Melhorn. He worked as an engine foreman for the Illinois Central / Canadian National Railroad for 44 years before retiring. He married Elizabeth Benner on May 17, 1958. He was a pitcher for many softball teams, and played for Perfect Window Cleaners, Riley Dunn, and Maroa Red Door. He was also in the Softball Hall of Fame. His passion, though, was fishing.
Surviving are his devoted wife, Elizabeth; two loving children, Timothy James Melhorn; Karen Sue Underwood; four grandchildren, Shane Melhorn; Seth Melhorn; Shelby Underwood; Tyler Underwood; one great granddaughter, Taylor Elizabeth Underwood; sisters, Carolyn Morthland husband, Bob, of Decatur; Kay Russell husband, Bill, of Metropolis; nieces and nephews, Jacki Stiverson; Tracy Kawaski; Dwane Morthland; Bobby Morthland; Billy Russell; several great nieces and nephews; and his favorite fishing buddy, Archie Compton.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and one brother, Gary Melhorn.
The family of James E. Melhorn is being served by Moran & Goebel Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 2801 N. Monroe St., Decatur, IL.
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