Melvin D. Kvam, 74

Melvin David Kvam, age 74, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away on Friday, September 6, 2024, at his home. Mel was born on March 6, 1950, in Austin to Martin and Elizabeth “Betty” (Hall) Kvam. He graduated from Austin High School in 1969. Mel enlisted in the Navy in 1970 to serve our country. He spent time on the USS America aircraft carrier stationed off Athens, Greece helping launch fighter jets. He spent 3 years in foreign waters and earned a Nation Defense Service Medal. He was honorably discharged in 1974. On July 17, 1976, Mel married Diane McKee in Austin, Minnesota. Mel furthered his education at Albert Lea Area Vocational Technical Institute with a diploma in mechanical drafting in 1980 and Austin Area Vocational Technical Institute with a degree in machine Shop in 1982. He worked at Hormel for 29 years before retiring in 2011. Mel’s favorite thing in life was spending time with his grandchildren and children. He would attend his grandchildren’s events as they grew up and when in their younger years, he enjoyed babysitting and helping them grow into the people they are today. He enjoyed playing guitar, writing poetry, short stories, and songs. Mel was a faithful Christian man. He enjoyed reading his bible and learning about the scriptures.

Mel is survived by his wife, Diane; three children, Heather (Ryan) Weber of Blooming Prairie, Josh Kvam of Austin, and Heidi (Andrew) Porisch of Anoka; grandchildren, Zach Weber, Chloe Weber, Adaline Kvam, Odessa Kvam and Jaxon Porisch; step granddaughters, Kaylee, Kelsee and Kloee; siblings, Dale Kvam of Austin, and Marie Kvam of Austin; sister-in-law Rose Mary Kvam; many nieces, nephews and other relatives. He is preceded in death by his parents, Martin and Elizabeth “Betty” Kvam; and brothers, Robert “Bob” Kvam, and Bruce Kvam.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 3:00-5:00 p.m. on Thursday September 12, 2024, at Worlein-Hoff Funeral Home in Austin. Military Honors will be at 3:00p.m. on Thursday at the Funeral Home. Worlein-Hoff Funeral Homes are assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.