Melvin Schaumburg, age 88, of Mahnomen, MN, died on August 13th, 2010 in the Mahnomen Nursing Home. He went peacefully in his sleep.

Melvin was born on June 13th, 1922 to Ralph and Minnie (Thram) Schaumburg in Chief Township in Mahnomen County. He went to Sommers School through 8th grade, but his desire to continue his education led him to attend Mahnomen High School where he graduated in 1941 at the top of his class. After graduation, Melvin started farming with his brother, John, near Beaulieu, MN, until 1952. He met Martha (Schuette) at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in 1956, and they were married on March 2nd, 1957. They purchased some land and started a family. They were blessed with 5 children: Enos, Christa, Dean, Ruby and Roy.

In 1991, Melvin and Martha moved off the farm into a house in Mahnomen. Melvin was very active in the community. Throughout his life he was involved in various organizations, including the Rod and Gun Club, Lions Club, Farmers Union and Senior Citizens. He volunteered at the Food Shelf, and held various positions on the Fair Board and was the Chief Township Board clerk for over 30 years. Although Melvin wasn't looking for recognition, he was the recipient of several awards throughout his life, including the Golden Deeds Award from the Library Club and the Good Neighbor Award from Minnesota Food Share. Melvin enjoyed playing Bingo, cards, bowling and fishing for golf balls at the golf course. He also enjoyed hunting, tinkering in the garage, and being on the farm.

Melvin was a good tempered and loving husband, father and grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Martha, his children, Enos of Sabin, MN, Christa Orr of Hackensack, NJ, Dean (Delane) of Bejou, MN, Ruby (Ray) Schenkel of Reidsville, NC and Roy of Winger, MN, and his brother, John (Dorothy) of Mahnomen, MN. Melvin's grandchildren include Eric (Kasandra) Schaumburg, Jana Schaumburg, Meghan Schaumburg, Anna Schaumburg, Joshua Orr, Caitlin Orr, Leah Schenkel and Ryan Schaumburg.

Melvin was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Minnie Schaumburg, one sister, Dorothy Mae Crandall, and one brother, Alfred Schaumburg.



A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, August 19, 2010 at the Anderson-Mattson Funeral Home, with luncheon to follow at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Mahnomen. Inurnment will be at First Lutheran Cemetery in Mahnomen.