Melvin George Fred Meister, 99, of Concordia Nursing and Rehabilitation of Bella Vista, Arkansas, passed away on Monday, Dec. 28, 2015, at Circle of Life Hospice Home in Bentonville, Arkansas.

He was born May 6, 1916, in Osage, Iowa, to Ernest H. and Lilla (Troge) Meister. He attended school in Osage, Mitchell County Iowa. He married Ruby Maxine Anderson on July 17, 1943. They had one son, Douglas, who passed away Dec. 1, 2004.

Melvin was a lifetime farmer in Mower County, Minnesota. He was a producer of grade A milk. Melvin was first in his county to have an egg-laying house, producing 440 dozen eggs per day. He was active in Production Credit Association as vice president serving on the Executive Committee for 13 years. He served on the Land-O-Lakes District Board of Directors for 15 years.

He was a member of Little Cedar Lutheran Church in Adams, Minnesota. He served in many capacities including president of the Church Council and Sunday School superintendent and teacher. For 17 years, he was treasurer of the District Lutheran Brotherhood. He was involved in the Rose Creek, Minnesota, Public School system serving a term as president of the PTA and Ag Committee.

In 1980, Melvin retired from farming. He and Ruby moved to Bella Vista, Arkansas. He became a member of the United Lutheran Church in Bella Vista serving as Lay Reader, usher, and greeter. He held office on the Church Council and was treasurer of the Lutheran Men’s Golf Club for 17 years.

He enjoyed bowling, golfing, playing bridge and traveling. Melvin was faithful volunteer in the annual Cancer Challenge fundraising event.

He was preceded in death by his wife and son, three sisters, and six brothers.

He is survived by two brothers: Luther of Austin, Minnesota, and Roy of Bloomington, Minnesota; one sister: Daisy of Onalaska, Wisconsin; and many nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 16, 2015, at United Lutheran Church, Bella Vista, Arkansas. Burial will take place in Bella Vista Cemetery. Memorials may be given to United Lutheran Church or donor’s choice of charity. Arrangements are by Bella Vista Funeral Home and Crematory.