Melvin Jacob Bastian

Melvin “Mel” Jacob Bastian, 102, of Wrightstown joined his beloved wife Lois (Vanderheiden) Bastian, in Heaven on Tuesday, December 19, 2023. He was born on July 28, 1921, in Appleton, WI, to the late Gilbert and Agnes (VanderBloomen) Bastian.

Mel graduated as the class valedictorian from Wrightstown High School. He was a proud veteran, enlisting in the Army Air Corps in October of 1942. Mel and the love of his life, Lois, were later happily married on June 20, 1945, in Wichita, Kansas. During his life, he worked as a truck driver and owned Quality Sand and Gravel. He was a Post Commander of the Wrightstown American Legion, as well as a member of the Lions Club. In addition to this, Mel loved to spend his time golfing, bowling, playing cards, and traveling. He was a man of God, attending St. Clare Catholic Church in Wrightstown.

Mel is survived by his son Richard and daughter-in-law Betty Bastian; brother Marvin (Eloyice) Bastian; granddaughter Lisa (Chris) Garrett; grandsons David and Jeffrey (Michelle) Bastian; and many nieces and nephews and friends.

Mel was preceded in death by his wife Lois; his son Gerald; brother Kenneth (Rose Marie) Bastian; sister Lorraine (Gordon) Berken.

A special thank you to the staff of Wayside Parkview Manor for their loving care.

Family and friends may gather at St. Clare Catholic Parish – St. Paul site, 437 Main St., Wrightstown on Friday, December 29 from 10:00am to 10:45am. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated for Mel at 11:00am with Father Brian Wideman officiating. Interment will be at St. Paul Catholic Cemetery in Wrightstown. Cotter Funeral and Cremation Care is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be sent to www.cotterfuneralhome.com.