Melda Arnelia Alexander, 97, of Rochester, passed away Friday, March 16, 2012, at her home at Madonna Meadows after a short illness.

Melda was born Nov. 26, 1914, in Blooming Prairie to Arthur and Lena Johnson. She grew up in Blooming Prairie and attended school there.

She worked at First National Bank of Blooming Prairie until she moved to Rochester, where she worked for Union National Bank, Olmsted County Department of Social Services and The Dove. She belonged to Zumbro Lutheran Church and its circles and was a life-long member of Order of Eastern Star of Blooming Prairie. She married Maurice Alexander and they later were divorced.

She is survived by her daughter: Myrna (Keith) Krupp, Rochester; son: James (Joy) Alexander, Rochester; two grandchildren: Melissa (Eric) Amundsen, Rochester and Harley Hess, Colorado; and two great-grandchildren: Mariah Amundsen and Jonah Amundsen both of Rochester.

She was preceded in death by a son, M. John “Moe” Alexander; a daughter, Mary Alexander Volker; two brothers, Arnold and Harold Johnson; and a sister, Emeline Brudwick.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, March 19, 2012, at Zumbro Lutheran Church. Visitation will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. On Monday, March 19, 2012, at the church.

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes 5421 Royal Place NW Rochester, MN 55901 (507) 289-3600.