Melvin Franklin Rinker

Melvin Franklin Rinker, 91, formerly of Tiffin, passed away at 8:35 a.m. Monday, Sept. 15, 2014, at Highview in the Woodlands Senior Care, Rockton, Illinois. Melvin was born Feb. 3, 1923, in Seneca County, to Mervin W. and Alice R. (Cowgar) Rinker. He married Jane L. Morris Nov. 24, 1951, at First Lutheran Church, Tiffin, and she preceded him in death. Survivors include a son, Douglas (Cheryl) Rinker of Rockford, Illinois; a sister, Irene Woods of Tiffin; and two grandchildren, Laury and Scott Rinker. Melvin was a graduate of Melmore High School, a member of Ebenezer United Methodist Church and a U.S. Army veteran serving stateside during World War II. He retired as a letter carrier after 36 years of service and was a member of the National Association of Letter Carriers and the National Association of Retired Federal Employees. He is lovingly remembered for his good and fun-loving nature, his love of the outdoors and his devotion to work, family, church and country. Melvin also was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers, William, Minor, Lester and Walter Rinker; and three sisters, Evelyn Price, Edith Junkins and Nellie Clady. Following Melvin’s death, his brother, Roy Rinker, passed away Friday, Sept. 19, 2014. His memorial service is at 2 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26, 2014, at Engle-Shook Funeral Home & Crematory, 135 N. Washington St., Tiffin, (419) 447-1221, with Pastor Rex King officiating. There will be military rites rendered by United Veterans Council as part of the service. There will be no visitation at this time. Burial will take place at Greenlawn Cemetery, Tiffin, at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.engleshookfuneralhome.com.