Melvin Curtis 'Arkansas Mel' Ward

Ward, Melvin Curtis "Arkansas Mel" MADISON-Melvin Curtis Ward passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 1, 2009, after a long and courageous battle against Wegener's granulomatosis. He was born on June 10, 1960, in Helena, Ark., the son of Ruthie Debrow and Andrew Murphy. Melvin grew up in Arkansas before spending time in Chicago and eventually residing in Madison. He was proud of his Southern roots and family ties. Melvin was an amazing singer and was prominent in the Madison music scene, known as Arkansas Mel. He was the proud leader of the Soul Brothers Band and was in his element on stage. He always had a smile on his face, a song in his heart, and a kind word for all. Besides his avid love of music, Melvin enjoyed spending time with family and friends, get-away weekend adventures, and just making people laugh. He is survived by his parents;his fiancee, Heather Kleinbrook;and a beautiful family of children, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family and friends who will greatly miss him. Visitation will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, from 3 p.m. until 5 p.m., on Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2009. A special thanks is extended to the staff at the St. Mary's Medical ICU and all of the physicians and nurses who were involved in Melvin's medical care throughout the years. He could light up a room with his smile and carefree spirit. May the Soul Man finally find peace. We love you! Visitation: Visitation will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, from 3 p.m. until 5 p.m., on Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2009.