Melvin C. Rife

Melvin Cecil Rife, 92, of Eden, Idaho went to meet his Heavenly Father on Friday, February 17, 2012. Melvin was born October 28, 1919 in Howards Ridge Missouri to William and Bertha Rife. Melvin stayed in the Missouri area until he joined the United States Army in 1943. Melvin proudly served his country in World War II where he was stationed across Europe and Africa. Upon returning from the war, Melvin married Euna Fitzpatrick and ultimately moved west to start a family. They chose the Magic Valley as their home, and settled in, having five children over the years. Melvin worked in the cattle industry for Jones Livestock for over 30 years before retiring and working part-time with Northside Canal Company. Melvin served as a long-time Mayor of Eden, Idaho as well as belonging to the Eden American Legion. He was an avid fisherman and could always be bothered to tell a good fish tale. Melvin was an active member of the Church of Christ and was known to fill in as minister for the Eden congregation. One of the highlights of his life was being presented with a Community Achievement Award and serving as the Grand Marshall at the Annual Hazelton Independence Day Celebration in the summer of 2010. Melvin was preceded in death by his mother and father and seven brothers and sisters. Melvin is survived by his wife of 66 years, Euna of Eden, Idaho. His children: Betty Rice (Verl) Eden, ID, Carol Rogers (Bob) Eden, ID, Gayle Rogers, Menlo, WA, Debra Kelso (Hal) Eden, ID, and Jonathan Rife, Eden, ID; 14 grandchildren 27 great grandchildren, 1 great-great grandchild as well as numerous nieces and nephews. A military rights service will be announced at a later date this summer to take place at the Hazelton Cemetery. Melvin will be remembered as an amazing Son, Brother, Husband, Father, Grandfather, Uncle and Friend. He touched the lives of all he met, and he will be missed by many. Melvin had a personal relationship with the Lord, his father, and talked daily with Ol’ Chap. Cremation was under the direction of Rosenau Funeral Home & Crematory.