Melvin Schluter

Madison – Melvin H. Schluter, age 93, peacefully passed away in his home Feb. 20, 2014. Mel was born on the family farm in Sun Prairie Township Sept. 26, 1920 to Harry and Lillian (Paxton) Schluter. He attended Seminary Springs School and received his diploma from Deerfield High School. Mel married Borghild Ersland in 1941. They had a daughter, Elaine. After working at Hankscraft Co., Mel enlisted in the US Navy in 1943 where he served as an AMMLC until discharged in 1946. Upon his return, Mel worked for Oscar Mayer. Borghild passed away in 1952. Mel married Marion Andersen on Feb. 20, 1954. They had three children, an infant daughter that passed away, son Gary, and daughter Jean. Mel and Marion were active members at Trinity Lutheran Church. In 1955, Mel began his own business, M.H. Schluter–Builder. He built his home and twenty others before establishing his home repair clientele. Always available to help, Mel was an inspiration to others. In 1992, he began devoting much of his time to Habitat For Humanity where he volunteered for the benefit of those in need. Throughout his life he was a friend and mentor. Mel is survived by his daughter, Elaine (Ed) Haas; son Gary (Kathy) Schluter; daughter Jean Schluter; grandchildren Mike (Leslie) Haas, Brian (Kelly) Haas, and Beth Vincent; seven great-grandchildren; two sisters Lavon (Roger) Olson, and Doris (Glen) Roberts; and sister-in-law Evelyn Schluter. Mel was preceded in death by his wife Marion in 2010; an infant daughter; and a brother Richard. Funeral services will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Dr., Madison, at 11 AM on Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2014. Burial will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park. Visitation will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME from 4 PM -7 PM on Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2014 and also 10 AM until the time of the service on Wednesday. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Habitat for Humanity, Trinity Lutheran Church, or a charity of your choice. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.