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Melvin “Mel” Germanson, Jr. age 91 of River Falls, WI died on Sunday, July 28, 2024 at Abbott Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis, MN. Mel was born on August 17, 1932 in LaCrosse, WI. He graduated Logan High School and was drafted in the Army. After returning from service, Mel received his Bachelor of Science from UW Madison. He continued his education earning his ED.S from UW Stout in Menomonie. He spent his employment years from 1959 – 1995 at UWRF working as registrar for most of those 36 years. Mel loved dealing with both the students and the faculty. Apart from employment he was involved in the community serving on the park board and the police and fire commission. He was a contributing member of the Lions Club, River Falls Chamber, River Falls Golf Club, American Legion and ST. Bridget Church. Mel was married to Loretta “Laurie” Panian. They were blessed with three sons. Mel was a devoted family man introducing his sons to fishing, hunting and golf. He enjoyed traveling, playing Bridge and attending sporting events, but his primary love was his family. Following his retirement Mel and his friend Jerry Carter became the original “RF grumpy old men” collecting money each fall for the food shelf. He is preceded in death by his parents, Melvin, Sr. and Dora (Kilmer) Germanson; sisters, Meladore (Earl) Jensen, Ann (Bob) Frey, Marion (Jake) Spreuer; and brother, Leland (Alice) Germanson. Mel is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Loretta “Laurie” Germanson; sons, David (Arica) Germanson, of Balsam Lake, WI, Steven (Darla) Germanson of Woodville, WI, and Thomas (Karen) Germanson of Rice Lake, WI; grandchildren, Ethan, Abby, Caleb, Luke and Blake; and many nieces, nephews and friends. Mass of Christian Burial was Thursday, August 1, 2024 at 11 am at St. Bridget Church 211 E Division Street River Falls, WI. Visitation was also on Thursday from 9-11 am at the church. Interment was in Greenwood Cemetery in River Falls, WI. Memorials may be directed to: UWRF Foundation Judy George and Mel Germanson Registrar Scholarship; The River Falls Food Shelf, or St. Bridget Church. Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.
click here to watch the recording of Mel’s service
8 Comments
We’ll miss your kindness and I will never forget how you shared your mother, my grandmother, in her raising me and my siblings. God Bless R.I.P. Uncle Mel
Mel, I remember many Lions events that we volunteered at together. Thanks for all your service. I will miss you.
Rose Rude,
River Falls Lions President
In this age of celebrity worship, Mel was a prime example of the real heroes who live and work in our home towns, enriching our lives with their kindness, generosity, and friendship.
I remember Mel fondly back in late ‘80s, early 90s. Competent and just a nice guy. Wishing his family Godspeed. Mel has left a positive, lasting memory.
I have fond memories of my Uncle Mel. Never will forget when he tried to rescue me from getting kicked out of college. RIP Uncle Junie
Hope to see you @ funeral if not please contact me. Thank you 🙏
Dave, Very sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. Barb enjoyed your dad’ council as she started her career as Registrar at UW-Superior. She highly respected his kind advice.
Take care,
Steve & Barb
Sorry for your loss. Dad(Arthur Delforge) worked with him. Just found out of his passing.
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