Melvin Cook McCalips

Melvin “Cook” McCalips, 89 of Lewistown, died peacefully at home May 25, 2024.

Melvin was born in Lewistown on December 27, 1934 to the late Harrison and Maxine (Foster) McCalips.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by: his wife, Elizabeth “Betty Ann” (Passmore), whom he married July 3, 1955; a daughter, Cindy Vogt; and grandson, Jonathan Houy. 

Melvin is survived by: daughters, Cathy McCalips (Jeffrey Silks) of Mount Pleasant Mills and Linda Houy (Michael) of Monroeville; a sister, Kay Wilcher (Richard) of Lewistown; grandchildren, Charlie Vogt, Megan Kauffman, Benjamin Vogt, Michael Vogt, Matthew Houy, and James McPherson; eight great-grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews; and sisters-in-law, Deborah Carodiskey (Thomas, deceased), and Helen Passmore (Charles, deceased).

Melvin graduated from Lewistown Joint High School in 1953. He joined the Navy that year travelling the Mediterranean on a transport ship USS Cambria, while training as an electrician. He was a Methodist by faith.

During his lifetime, Melvin worked at the Olmsted Air Force based in Middletown, PA.  After moving back to Lewistown, he worked for Standard Steel followed by his long employment with Penelec.  He was a band booster for Penn Highlands and Lewistown marching bands.

Melvin was a man of adventure with many interests and talents who could rebuild or fix anything.  He loved to hunt and enjoyed the sport with many generations starting with his father and including his daughters, relatives, and his grandsons.  He also enjoyed fishing with his lifelong friend John McKinnon.  They could regularly be found patrolling the Juniata River. They looked forward to Saturday breakfast at Mifflin County Airport where they watched the planes come and go. Watching Westerns on TV and listening to Patsy Cline on the stereo were favourites for many years.

Motorcycle rides were a staple of retirement, highlighted by a long adventure in 1981 to California and back with his wife Betty Ann which covered 10,272 miles in 34 days. Melvin could also be found most days at the YMCA where he worked out and socialized with his friends.

 Melvin also experienced sadness with the passing of his daughter Cindy, grandson Jon, wife Betty and myriad relatives and friends.  Through this all he maintained an excitement for life.

A viewing will be held from 6 to 8 p.m., Friday, May 31, 2024, at Heller-Hoenstine Funeral Homes, Woodlawn, 200 N. Main St., Lewistown.

A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m., Saturday, June 1, 2024, at the funeral home with Pastor Bob Marsh officiating.

Interment will take place at Juniata Memorial Park with special services provided by Juniata County Veterans Council and VFW Post 7011.

A special thanks to all who made Melvin’s life a wonder until his peaceful passing.

“In my Father’s house there are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you.  I go to prepare a place for you.” John 14:2.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Melvin’s memory to Juniata Valley YMCA.

Online condolences may be offered to the family at www .hellerhoenstinefuneralhome.com.

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