December 30, 2009

Melvin Green

Melvin Green, 81, of rural Williston and a McKenzie County farmer, died early Sunday morning, Dec. 27, 2009, at the Bethel Lutheran Nursing Home in Williston. His funeral service will be celebrated Wednesday morning, Dec. 30, 2009, at 11:00 a.m. at Faith United Methodist Church in Williston. Rev. Rod Tkach will officiate and interment will follow in the Camp Creek Cemetery north of Alexander, N.D.
Melvin Leroy Green was born April 6, 1928, in Williston, N.D., to Samuel O. and Myrtle (Clodfelter) Green. He grew up and attended rural school in Poe Township in McKenzie County, where he lived most of his life. In his younger years, he farmed with his father and also worked in the oil fields and in constructing dams.
He married Shirley Collings on Oct. 26, 1954, and started working shortly thereafter at the Williston Basin Refinery, where he worked under different ownerships for 38 years. He also farmed during this time. He and Shirley raised their five children in rural Alexander.
Melvin enjoyed visiting his friends and farming buddies at several local businesses in town. He also enjoyed sales of all kinds, particularly auction and cattle sales, which became his main retirement entertainment. Melvin enjoyed driving around the farm checking out the local crops and was well known for his water witching. He was a member of the local Moose Lodge where he enjoyed playing darts and pool.
Melvin retired from the oil refinery but never retired from farming until he entered Bethel Home in February of 2009.
Melvin is survived by his wife, Shirley; one daughter, Linda (Lyle) Stevens of Williston, N.D.; sons, Kevin and Terry of Williston, and Rick (Leslee) of Billings, Mont. He is also survived by grandchildren, Sara Palmer, Lacie Green, Wade, Matthew and Adam Stevens, Jasmin and Daniel Green; one great-granddaughter, Kira Stevens; and Daniel Landes, a son from a previous marriage. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Melvin was preceded in death by his parents, Sam and Myrtle; one son, David; and his sister, Thelma Johnson.
Friends may call at the Everson Funeral Home of Williston on Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m., and Wednesday at the church for the hour preceding the funeral.
Friends may visit www.eversonfh.com to share remembrances of Melvin.

WATFORD CITY WEATHER