Melvin Sunderman

Melvin J. Sunderman, 86, of Springfield, Mo., passed away Thursday, March 5, 2009, at St. John's Medical Center in Springfield.

He was born Feb. 22, 1923, in Mill Creek, Mo. He moved to Cape Girardeau at the age of 2.

Mr. Sunderman went into the Air Force in 1941 and served in the European Theater until 1945.

On April 8, 1953, he was married to his wife of 55 years, Louise Stricker. They had three children, Joe (Donna) Sunderman of Springfield, Cathy Schwegel (Tom) of Nesbit, Miss., Mary Sunderman of Springfield; four grandchildren; a great-grandson; a brother, Victor Sunderman; and a number of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by eight brothers and a sister.

Mel was active in the Knights of Columbus, serving as grand knight, district deputy, and was the faithful navigator of the 4th Degree. These positions were served in both Springfield and Cape Girardeau. He was also a member of the VFW and American Legion Post 676, serving as commander two years.

Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church in Springfield. A prayer service will be held at 6.

Funeral Mass will be at 10 a.m. Monday at the church, with Monsignor Thomas Reidy officiating. Burial will be in Missouri State Veterans Cemetery at Springfield.

Arrangements are under the care of Gorman-Scharpf Brentwood Chapel in Springfield.