Melvin Gail Samplawski
June 20, 1923 — July 14, 2014
Melvin G. Samplawski, 91 of Chetek passed away Monday, July 14, 2014 at Knapp Haven Nursing Home. He was born June 20, 1923 in Stanley, WI the son of John and Nora Samplawski.
Melvin graduated from Stanley High School and the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire with a Bachelors Degree. Melvin married Audrey Owens June 14, 1969 in Chetek, Wisconsin. He served in the U.S. Navy during WWII in the Pacific, played the trombone in a polka band with his brothers, and marched in the Polish drill team with his friends. Melvin “Mr. Lion” also a member of the Lions for over 60 years, serving as district Governor from 1984-1985, Foundation Director 1987-1993, an avid Lion pin collector with over 7,000 pins and 4 th degree Knights of Columbus. After 35 years of service, Melvin retired from Northern States Power Company as District Manager in 1981. He was a man who loved to bowl, travel, hunt, fish, and attend many international Lion conventions.
Melvin is survived by his wife, Audrey, children, Gayle (David) Pearson of Racine, WI, John (Christine Weymouth) Samplawski of Bloomington, MN, Ginger Kell of Chetek, Cathy Maatta of Chetek, Cindy (Steve) Risberg of Augusta, WI daughters-in-law, Patricia Samplawski of Holmen, WI, Vicki Clark of Cameron, WI, 13 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, other relatives and many friends.
He is preceded in death by his first wife; Flavianne, his parents, son; Michael Samplawski, step-son; Charles Clark, twin-brother; Marvin and brothers Roy and Merl Samplawski.
Funeral Services for Melvin will be held 11:00 A.M. Saturday, July 19, 2014 at Chetek Lutheran Church with Pastor Sam Kochel officiating. A visitation will be at the funeral home Friday, July 18, 2014 from 4-7 P.M. and again one hour prior to the service on Saturday. The Howard-Campbell-Ganske American Legion Post #179 will be performing military honors at the church. Burial will take place in Lake View Cemetery. Family and friends are invited for continued fellowship and a luncheon in the church basement following the service.