Melvin J. Chirdon

Melvin J. Chirdon, 82, The Lutheran Home at Hollidaysburg, formerly of Altoona, died Sunday at the home. He was born in Altoona, son of the late Daniel W. and Genevieve (Litzinger) Chirdon. Survived by nephews: Joseph M. (wife, Jean) Chirdon and William F. (wife, Karen) Chirdon, all of Altoona; great-nephews: Michael (wife, Cathy), Timothy (wife, Robin), Jon (wife, Jess), Thomas and Daniel; a great-niece, Ann Bickel (husband, Brady); and several great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his brothers: Nelson M. and Daniel W. Jr.; and a sister, Phyllis. Mr. Chirdon was a member of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, Altoona, and a former usher at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, Newry. He retired as a mail carrier from the U.S. Post Office in Phoenix. Mr. Chirdon served during WWII as a private with the 69th Infantry Battalion and then served as a sergeant first class during the Korean War with the U.S. Army. Melvin was highly regarded by the staff at the Lutheran Home. A funeral Mass will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, 2008, at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, Altoona, by Father James Crookston. Inurnment will be at Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum. The family will receive friends from 10:30 to 10:55 a.m. Saturday at the church. In lieu of flowers, kindly make donations for Masses.www.krishfuneralhome.com.