Melvin Glenn Alkire

Melvin Glenn Alkire, 83, of Sandpoint, Idaho went to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, April 20, 2023, in his home with his daughter by his side.  He was born on March 23, 1940, in El Paso, Texas to Wayne and Bernice (Moseley) Alkire.  He graduated from El Paso High School in 1958, attended Abilene Christian College for a year, and then married his wife, Jo Ann (Roe), in August of 1959.  They were married for over 63 years living in Abilene, TX, Winslow, AZ, Flagstaff, AZ, and Judsonia, AR before moving to North Idaho. 

“Mel”, a retired Fire Chief and Arson Investigator, had also worked for the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway for ten years before becoming a fireman with the Winslow Fire Department.  Most people who knew him called him “Chief”, and a chief he was.  Mel loved horses, gardening, reading, and spending time with his family.  His favorite role was being a “Papa” to his grandchildren. 

He was a faithful member of the Church of Christ for most of his life serving in whatever capacity was needed.  Mel enjoyed leading congregational singing, especially the old hymns, and had many favorites.  If there were others at a gathering who shared his love for singing, he would invariably rally them all together for a sing-along.  We can only imagine the grand time he is now having as he participates in that heavenly choir. 

Mel was preceded in death by his parents and grandson, William Wilkinson.  He is survived by his wife, Jo Ann; his daughter, Christine (Tom) Wilkinson of Edenton, NC; his brother, Erwin (MaunieLou) Alkire of Kimberling City, MO; his sister, Robbie Lynn (Dan) Francis of Granbury, TX; four grandchildren Annie, Landon, Saryn and Caleb; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A service officiated by Darryl Cope will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, April 28, at Coffelt Funeral Home in Sandpoint, Idaho, 109 N Division Ave.