Melvin Joseph Gagnon

Melvin was born February 11, 1927, with his identical twin brother Marvin, to Albert and Irene (Cassell) Gagnon in Gladstone. He remained a lifelong resident of the Gladstone area.

Melvin was united in marriage to Aileen Josephine Heino on July 3, 1965. Together they made their home in Kipling. He was a World War II veteran. After being honorably discharged he worked for Goodman’s mink ranch and as a bartender. In the mid 50s he started working for the Soo Line railroad, retiring in February 1989.

He enjoyed woodworking, ice fishing, reading western novels and tending to his huge vegetable and fruit garden.

Melvin is survived by his wife of 58 years, Aileen; two sons, David (Sue) Gagnon and Richard (Jeri) Gagnon; two daughters, Vickie (Scott) Danner and Torey Gagnon; stepdaughter, Patti Weyandt; sister, Elaine Pepin; nine grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Irene Gagnon; stepfather, Martin “Slim” Caldwell; six brothers; five sisters and one great-grandson.

Special thanks to the staff at Christian Park Health Care Center for their compassionate care of Melvin, over the past two years.

At Melvin’s request there will be no funeral service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Gladstone Public Library, 300 South 10th Street, Gladstone or the Gladstone Soo Line Steam Engine Authority, 921 Delta Avenue, Gladstone.

The family is being assisted by the Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone. To leave the family a message of condolence, go to http://www.skradskifuneralhomes.com.