Melvin Douse

Melvin “Mel” Douse, 73, of Mascoutah, IL passed away on Sunday, Nov. 13, 2011 at his home in Mascoutah.


He was the devoted husband of Dolores of Mascoutah, IL and father of Denise James of Mascoutah, IL, Thomas Douse of Newport News, VA, Louis Douse of New York, NY and devoted grandfather to his four grandchildren, Brett and Brian Douse and Travis and Taylor James. He is also survived by his sister Elizabeth Williams, nee Douse, and her two children, Darryl Williams of Chicago, IL and Denise Johnson of Chicago, IL and his extended family of Santos, Anne, Eric and Adam Ruiz of Mascoutah, IL.


He is preceded in death by his father, Nep and his mother Elizabeth, nee Stallings, Douse.


Mel was born on Jan. 5, 1938 in Augusta, GA, but grew up in Chicago, IL. Mel proudly served in the U. S. Air Force for 26 years. During his time of service, he met his wife Dolores at Torrejon de Ardoz Air Force Base in Spain in 1959 and they have been together ever since.


Mel was a U. S. Air Force veteran serving two tours in Vietnam and one tour in Korea and was a bronze star recipient. After his retirement, Mel dedicated nearly 20 years of service to the St. Clair County Transit District.


He was a member of the VFW Post 7682, Mascoutah and American Legion Post 292, Mascoutah.


Mel was a dedicated family man, excellent friend, and committed servant to the community. The family would like to extend gratitude to the community of Mascoutah for years of friendship and support and special thanks to the Mascoutah Police and Fire Departments.


Memorials may be made to the Air Force Aid Society and received at the funeral home.


Visitation: Friends may call from 5 to 8 PM Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2011 at Moll Funeral Home, Mascoutah, IL.


Funeral: A funeral service will be held 10 AM Wednesday, Nov. 16, 2011 at Moll Funeral Home with Pastor Jack Spratte officiating. Burial will be in Mascoutah City Cemetery.