Melvin Buckanaga, age 66, of Mahnomen, MN, died Friday, October 11, 2024, at Fair Oaks Lodge in Wadena, MN.

Melvin Eugene Buckanaga (Gidagaa bizhiw) was born in White Earth, MN, the eldest child born to Melvin J. and Bernice (Clark) Buckanaga.  His youth was spent growing up in the Minneapolis, MN, area where he attended Hall School, Franklin Public School and then North High.  As a young man, Melvin entered the United States Army.  Following his honorable discharge, he returned to the Minneapolis metro for a short time before making the move up north.  Mel made his home on the White Earth Reservation living in Pine Point and later Mahnomen.  Over the years, Melvin worked at the Swift Turkey Plant and more recently the Shooting Star Casino in the maintenance department where his recently declining health forced him into retirement.

Melvin had a great personality and was always sporting a huge smile.  He will be remembered as a friendly and kind person with a big generous heart and infectious laugh.  Mel was always willing to help people, often putting them before himself.  Family was a very important part of his life, and he absolutely loved family get-togethers and backyard BBQ's.  In his spare time, he enjoyed going to the casino, playing poker and recently, watching westerns and American Pickers on television.  Although gone from this life too soon, he will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Melvin is survived by two sons, Melvin "Bucky" Boyd and Jerome Boyd; a brother, Michael (Patti V.) Buckanaga; two sisters, Diane Buckanaga and Evelyn Buckanaga; special friend, Celeste Neeland; and many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his grandparents; parents; siblings: Wanda Blaine, Patrick Buckanaga Sr., Roxanne Flammond, Renee Gripp, Poncho Rock; and nephew, Travis Buckanaga.

Funeral Services will be held Thursday, October 17, 2024, at 1 pm at the Old Pine Point School, Pine Point, MN.  Visitation will begin on Wednesday, October 16th at 5 pm with a Wake Service at 7 pm and continue until the time of the funeral at the school.  Burial with military honors will take place in the Breck Memorial Episcopal Cemetery, Pine Point, MN.