Melvin C. Bawek, 88, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at Mayo Clinic Hospital, Saint Marys Campus-Rochester on Friday, April 13, 2018, surrounded by his loving family.

Melvin was born in Windom Township, Minnesota, outside of Austin, on Sept. 8, 1929, to Benjamin and Theresa (King) Bawek. He grew up on the family farm and attended Austin area schools. He served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. Melvin was employed by Hormel Foods Corporation and retired from the company after nearly 40 years. His life focused on family, friends and faith. Among Mel’s favorite pastimes were playing golf, riding his scooter around Austin, attending church at St. Augustine, where he was a lifelong member, and attending functions at the many clubs he belonged to, including the Moose, Eagles, Elks, VFW and American Legion. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

Survivors include his children, Pat Rabideau of Austin, Rick (Judy) Bawek of Lakeville, Minnesota, Lisa Thomas of Austin, and Diane “Deetz” Spaid (Bawek) of Austin; six grandchildren, Amy, Travis, Brandi, Mark, Tyson, and Ingrid; 13 great-grandchildren; four siblings, Ronald, Leo, Darlene and Janet; brother-in-law, Jack Guintire; sister-in-law, Mary Jo Rasmussen; many nieces and nephews. Melvin was preceded in death by his parents, Ben and Theresa Bawek; his wife, Julianne Bawek; and seven of his 11 siblings, Gilbert, Alice, Lurena, Bob, Eugene, Laverne and Norbert.

Visitation will be held from 1:30-2:30 p.m. on Friday, April 20, 2018, at the Worlein Funeral Home in Austin, followed by a prayer service. Private interment will take place at a later date. Memorials can be directed to donor’s choice. Worlein Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.