Graveside funeral services will be held on Wednesday, November 12, 2003, at 2:00 p.m. at Wasco Memorial Park for Melvin "Mel" Menser, age 76, of Bakersfield, formerly of Wasco, who passed away on November 7, 2003, in Bakersfield. Pastor John Ross will officiate and interment will follow. Visitation is private.
Mel Menser was born as the first twin on August 27, 1927, the son of James and Katie Menser, in Shawnee, Oklahoma. He graduated from Bethel High School in Shawnee and then spent one year in the U.S. Navy. He married Billie Stinnett on November 18, 1947. From April 1947 to December 1950, Mel was employed in Various jobs that took him from Wasco to Shawnee to San Luis Obispo. On January 9, 1951, Mel applied for a job with P.G. & E. specifying that he would take any available type of work. On October 26, 1962, he advanced to troubleman job in Wasco which he held until he retired.
After 38 productive years as a dedicated P.G. & E. employee, Mel retired on August 31, 1989, to spend more quality time with his wife, Billie and be a full time grandpa. He walked 7 miles per day until his health failed.
Mel is survived by his wife, Billie Menser of Bakersfield; daughter, Linda Waters and husband, Mikell and children, Mikell, Mackenzie and Melissa of Bakersfield; son, Alan Menser and wife, Cindy and children, Katie and Allison of Bakersfield; brother Joseph Menser and wife, Kay of San Diego; sisters, Ida Klander of Oklahoma, Florence Harrison of Colorado and Esther Eager of Oklahoma and an adopted daughter, Terry Sadler. He was preceded in death by his parents; twin brother, Alvin; brother's Ed and Amos Menser and sister Iva Sublet.
The family would like to thank Optimal Home Health, especially Ivonne, Peggy and Pam and The Bakersfield Heart Hospital CCU-unit.
Peters Funeral Home, Wasco.
Published November 9, 2003.