Obituary of Melvl Vaughn McElhinney

Melvl "Mel" Vaughn McElhinney, of Lake Havasu City, Arizona, passed away on October 27, 2017. He was born on August 3, 1941 to his parents, Gail and Alvina McElhinney in Burlington, Iowa. He was 76 years of age. Mel was living in Princeton, British Columbia when he met Rita Gott, and on February 9, 1963 they were united in marriage. Throughout his life Mel resided in many different and beautiful areas throughout the states, of which included; Iowa, South Dakota, Minnesota and North Carolina. In Princeton, British Columbia he met Rita. Together with their son Barry they moved to Spokane, Washington, Anchorage, Alaska, Bonners Ferry, Idaho, Sandpoint, Idaho, Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Mel and Rita made their final move to Lake Havasu City, Arizona in 1987. Mel loved spending time in his garage fixing just about anything. He always enjoyed a challenging project, whatever it was. Mel took aircraft mechanic training at Felts Field when he lived in Spokane and continued working on aircraft throughout his life. Mel wrapped up his career at the Lake Havasu City Municipal Airport. Mel is dearly loved and fondly remembered by all who knew him and by his friends and neighbors in the condo development where he lived. He will be deeply missed by all! He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 53 years, Rita McElhinney and his parents, Gail and Alvina (McElhinney) Woodworth . Mel is survived by his son, Barry (Kari) McElhinney; sister, Karen Woodworth; grandchildren, McKenzie, Isabell and Liam McElhinney. Donations can be made to Hospice of Havasu. Services were placed in the care of Lietz-Fraze Funeral Home. Thoughts and condolences can be sent to the family at www.lietz-frazefuneralhome.com. To send a free card to the family, go to www.sendoutcards.com/lietzfraze.