Melvin E. Figolah, 72 of Valparaiso, passed away Sunday, December 17, 2023. He was born March 21, 1951 in Elkhart, IN to William L. and Vivian P. (Lawrence) Figolah. Mel made his career working through the Local 597 Pipefitters Union. He was a 50-year member and Past Master of the Masonic Porter Lodge 137, a member of the Scottish Rite, and attended St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, Valparaiso. Following his retirement, Mel enjoyed traveling with Barb and they settled in Tarpon Springs, FL where they enjoyed the winters. Mel had an affection for music. He started as the drummer in his high school band Midnight Mass, and continued playing throughout his life with Bobby and the Mystics, United Sound, and Jammin After Dark. To Mel, music was pure enjoyment and he loved sharing his passion with everyone.
On July 2, 1972, Melvin married Barbara Bellovary who survives along with their sons, Tom Figolah and Kevin (Andrea) Figolah; and grandchildren, Bridger, Callum and Lillian. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, William and Glen Figolah.
A Memorial Gathering will be held January 10, 2024 from 3:00-6:00 PM at Moeller Funeral Home 104 Roosevelt Rd., Valparaiso, with a Masonic Service and Memorial Service beginning at 6:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested to the Shriners Children's Hospital.
GUESTBOOK
Barb and family, John and my heart hurt so much for us and you. We have such great memories and fun times. John called Mel, his brother. We loved him and deeply miss him. Prayers and love go out to you all, -John and Sandy Harden
My Dear Figgy and family, we so sorry for your loss. Mel's passing has left us filled with sadness. We will always remember the birthday parties we had for Mel and Jim. Sending you all our prayers and love. -Anita and James Goga
Our hearts our broken for all of u. May God give u all strength and peace knowing Mel is at rest. God bless u all. -Rae Ann Ringer
Barb and family I know there are no words that can soothe the pain of loss. Only time will numb and make it liveable. Richard and I send our heartfelt condolences. Love you, -Laurie Collins
Debra and I send our deepest condolences to you all. Mel was a light of our Tarpon Shores community. He will be deeply missed. Our hugs and prayers be with all of you during this difficult time. -Michael Keddy
My Dearest Barb, With a heavy heart I send you my deepest condolences. I wish I had magical words to comfort you my friend, please know that you are in my prayers and I am here if you need anything. -Angela Armenta
We are so sorry for your loss. He was a fun person. He always talked to us. He will be missed. -Marilyn and gale.swenson Strandberg
I've never met a more gentle tender man than Mel. Always a Kind sweet smile on his face. Never knew he was a Mason. That would explain it. He was seasonal but I always enjoyed his return with barb. God bless his family. May God watch you always. Xxoo -Judy demko
We remember all the holidays we celebrated together with you all. Visited Tarpon Springs last at their FL home… sat around catching up on old/new times. Always a joy to be around… fun memories… heartfelt blessings. All Our Love.. Mike-Kelly-Brock Tatalovich XOXO -Kelly Tatalovichb
Condolences to the family and friends. Keep playing those drums Mel. You will be very missed. Rest in Peace. -Sharon Shefchik Maryman
Iam so sorry to hear of Mel's passing, he was a great friend! -Chuck Kukelka
Sending love and prayers to Barb and the family. The music is silent on Royal Palm and my heart is broken as are many others in our community. He will be missed. -Kathy Tracy
To Barb and family: it was heartbreaking when we got the news of Mel’s passing. He always had a smile on his face when he greeted you. Mel will be missed for sure. May God be with you and comfort you all and may Mel rest in peace! -Bill & Nan Fortier
SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. MEL WILL BE MISSED BY SO MANY PEOPLE WE ALL LOVED HIM SO MUCH.I ALWAYS CALLED HIM MY BOYFRIEND. HE WAS A KIND MAN. I LOVED TALKING TO HIM. -Shirley Gustafson
Barb and family, I am so so sorry for the loss of Mel. We sure had some good times at Mesa Spirit Resort, Cherish your memories. Hugs my friend, -Love Faye Baier
Barb and family, I was so sad to hear of Mel's passing. He will be greatly missed. I didn't know him very well but enjoyed talking to him. I am sending prayers and hugs. -Charlotte Champion91
Barb, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this sad time. Mel was such a joy to be around. He was always friendly and fun to be around. He will be greatly missed in our park. -MJ Hendricks
Barb and family, Larry and I are so sorry and will miss Mel. I loved catching Mel in the shed listening to his music so we could visit. Hoot loved telling work stories about all the guys at morning coffee and now they are laughing together. The two of you were a rock to me this year. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. -Louise White
Royal Palm Drive is silent now. No more Mel and his music. They will be greatly missed. Barb— my condolences and cherish the many good memories. -Marcia Bartholomew
Our deepest sympathies to you Barb and the entire family. There are not sufficient words to console you. Just know you are loved and in our thoughts and prayers. You better check his sock drawer as he told me once he hides money so you can get “shiney” things! He will be missed by all. We will always have the potato peeling session! May you someday get peace. Love you, -Beth and David Fitz
Barb and family: we are so incredibly heartbroken to learn of Mel's passing. He was such a warm, friendly person. We loved chatting with him as he handled the cards at the bowling alley. And, it always made me smile when taking my walks down Royal Palm and hearing his wonderful selection of music. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. May time and countless memories of him help you during this most difficult time. -Linda & Rick Axtell
Barb and family, my thoughts and prayers are with all of you. It’s a difficult time but time gives you the precious memories you need to keep in your hearts forever. Love and peace…… -Jeanne Scheuch
Barb,
Bob and I want to tell you how sorry we were to hear about Mel’s passing. We always enjoyed being around Mel and the joy on his face when he was drumming was inspiring. Mel stopped in at our place last year before we sold and we had a wonderful visit. We will always remember the smile he had. Condolences to you and your family. -Marg and Bob Wickett
Barb and Family, I want you to know you are all in my thoughts and prayers. You have each other to lean on, you are not alone. You are in the hearts of all here in Florida, as well I’m sure back home. -Janet Guarino
