Melvin Edwin Cartwright

Melvin Edwin Cartwright, age 92, stepped into eternity to be with his Savior on May 28, 2025, surrounded by family and holding the hand of his beloved. He was born in Waupaca, WI on August 11, 1932, to Edwin and Bernice (Tarr) Cartwright. He graduated from Waupaca High School in 1950. Melvin married Donna at St Peter’s Lutheran Church, Weyauwega, on September 20, 1952. They shared the next 72 years together sharing good times and difficult ones and always found ways to connect. He worked as a pressman and operator for Earl’s Litho & Print Company for 40+ years, until his retirement in 1994.

Mel was a master of the one-liner and was known for his great sense of humor. Family was everything to him, he was a supportive and loving husband, and a wonderful father, grandfather and great grandfather. His focus during 72 years of marriage was the ability to compromise and fill your life with give and take. Ever the gentleman, he always opened doors and pulled out chairs for his bride, and he and Donna were always holding hands. His life with Donna was truly the love story no one wanted to see end.

During his free time, Melvin enjoyed outdoor activities, from hunting and fishing to camping. He also was a skilled woodworker and small engine mechanic and enjoyed time spent with various square dance clubs-for over 50 years!- with the love of his life Donna. During his days in the square dance club, Mel was the club bean bag and horseshoe champ. He was a jack of all trades and was seldom sitting still. He and Donna enjoyed mall-walking, gardening, playing cards, watching the birds on their deck, bus tours and church league dart ball and travelling to Texas in their camper for the winter months. The whole family enjoyed celebrating Christmas at the “family home” with Brandy/Whiskey Slushies-there were always two ice cream buckets filled with them that everyone in the family looked forward to. The continually refined recipe is a Cartwright secret.

He was also passionate about giving back to his community and church. He was active in Boys Pioneers and ushered at Mount Olive Lutheran and Immanuel Lutheran Church in Greenville. Mel’s faith in God was a driving force, and he bore the fruits of the spirit in his life. He was filled with kindness for all. He was known as someone who made friends, not enemies.

Melvin is survived by his wife Donna, children: Jim (Sher) Cartwright, and Al (Julie) Cartwright; grandchildren: Joston (Heidi) Cartwright, Joshua (Christina) Starner, Jolene Cartwright, Griffen (Lexi) Cartwright and Madison Cartwright; and great grandchildren: Jared, Bryce, Alivia, Brayden, Leah, Dominic, Hannah, Aria, Jay and Talon; son-in-law Bob Starner; brother Sam Cartwright; brother-in-law Alvin Thiel; as well nieces nephews and other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Edwin and Bernice; his daughter LuAnn Starner; granddaughter Leslie Starner; siblings: Gerald (Elaine) Cartwright, Clarence (Betty) Cartwright, Les (Mabel) Cartwright, Anita (Lloyd) Paris, Mary Lou (Roger) Flater, sister-in-law Betty Cartwright; and other relatives and friends.

A funeral service for Mel will take place on Saturday June 14, 2025, at 11:00am at Immanuel Lutheran Church, W2765 School Road, Greenville. Friends and family may gather at the church from 9:00am until the service begins. Mel will be laid to rest at Immanuel Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Immanuel Lutheran Church in Mel’s memory.