Melvin W. Rehm, 88, of Wilber passed away at the Wilber Care Center on Sunday morning, March 13th, 2016.

He was born on September 5, 1927 in Clatonia to John and Margaret (Burger) Rehm. He was baptized and confirmed by Pastor Monhardt at Zion Lutheran Church in Clatonia, where he was a member until his death. He attended District 48 grade school, and was a 1944 graduate of Clatonia High School. Melvin served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War from 1950-1952 as a physical therapist in Denver, Colorado.

After his service, Melvin returned and lived in Clatonia, eventually becoming the owner and operator of Vet's Service filling station until its closing in 1998. He was always proud of his work, and it was said that if it had wheels, Melvin probably fixed a tire on it during his career.

He was united in marriage to Judy Pospisil on August 3, 1973, and helped to raise her son Tim, the current Director of Corporate Security and Chief Security Officer at Nebraska Public Power District in Columbus.

During his years living and working in Clatonia, Melvin served on the Clatonia Fire Department, was the mayor, and helped to acquire the school building where the current Community Center now sits. He was an umpire and coach, and provided much support to any community event he was asked to take pa
rt in.

He was a lifelong member of Zion Lutheran Church, where he sang in the church choir for over 60 years. He served on the church council, was chairman of the congregation, and was the designated "Sunday bell ringer" for most of his years.

Melvin was a loving husband and father, and loved being part of his grandchildren's lives. He loved the St. Louis Cardinals and Husker Volleyball, and was an avid card player of all kinds. He particularly enjoyed bridge, pinochle, cribbage, and the occasional game of Clatonia 6-point pitch.

Survivors include his wife of 42 years Judy, son Tim and his wife Kathy of Columbus, and grandson PFC Cameron Pospisil (USMC) and granddaughter Taryn Pospisil. Sister Hilda Henke of Wilber, and brothers Herb Rehm of DeWitt, and Robert and wife Ruth of Eagan, Minnesota.

He was preceded in death by his Parents, Sisters: Emily Schroeder, Elsie Huneke, and Alma Traudt, Brothers: Ervin Rehm, Art Rehm and Gerald Rehm.

Cremation, no viewing. A Memorial Service will be held at 10:30 AM on Friday, March 18, 2016 at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, Clatonia. Family Prayer Service will be held at 10 AM at church on Friday. Private family interment to be held at a later date at Zion Lutheran Cemetery. Condolences at kunclfh.com. Kuncl Funeral Home, Wilber is in charge of the arrangements.