Melvin Rex Irish, age 68 of North Platte, passed away Thursday December 31, 2015.
Mel was born on February 28, 1947 in Nampa, ID to Bennett and Verna Dell (Glenn) Irish. He graduated from Cozad High School in 1966 and attended North Platte College where he played basketball for 2 years. On July 8, 1968 he married Glenna Smith in Norton, KS and to this union 2 sons were born, Chris and Matt. He entered the US Army in 1968 and served in Germany during the Vietnam War. After his discharge in 1971 he worked as a salesman and driver for Coca Cola, Pabst Blue Ribbon and Budweiser. On June 10, 1994 he married JoAnn Loving. Mel was a member of St. Patrick’s’ Catholic Church, and Knights of Columbus #1211. He enjoyed playing softball and was part of a state championship team. He loved nature and traveling to the mountains. He cared for those around him and loved to have a good time spending time with friends and family and following his children’s and grandchildren’s activities. He will be greatly missed by those who knew him.
Melvin is survived by his sons Christopher (Tanya) Irish and Matt (Melissa) Irish all of North Platte; adopted son Matthew Evans of North Platte; grandchildren Jalen and Cody Irish, and Peyton, Madison and Isaac Irish; siblings Rhonda Stephen of Cozad, Ed Irish of North Platte, Steve (Dee) Irish of Norfolk, Judy Vanderpool of TN, Cindy Irish of North Platte, Bob Irish of Cozad, Ben (DeAnna) Irish of Greeley, CO, Trudy Delgado of Sterling, CO; step brother Rick Irish of Pangua, UT; longtime friend Suzie Myers; as well as numerous other family members and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and 2 brothers Bennett Albert Irish Jr., and Patrick B. Irish Sr.
Memorials are suggested to the St. Patrick’s Catholic Church and online condolences may be shared at www.adamsswanson.com. Christian Wake Service will be 6:00 p.m. Monday January 4, 2016 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00 a.m. Tuesday January 5, 2016 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church with Reverend Charles Torpey as Celebrant. Burial will follow at Ft. McPherson National Cemetery with full military honors. Visitation will be noon until 6:00 p.m. Sunday January 3rd and 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Monday January 4th at Adams and Swanson Funeral Home which is in charge of arrangements.