MANSFIELD: Melvin Lee Zehner passed away surrounded by his loving family on December 4, 2024. He was 87.
He was born on August 11, 1937 to parents Howard and Lucille (Shambaugh) Zehner in Mansfield, Ohio. After graduating from Union High School, Mel went on to serve in the United States Air Force. Once home from his time in the service, he worked at Ohio Brass Company as a draftsman for many years and retired from Bosch in the early 2000s.
On February 4, 1978 he married the love of his life Susan Schanne, having met when Sue moved to Mansfield and was in need of an apartment to rent. The couple shared 46 wonderful years of marriage together until her passing in March of this year. Now they are reunited once again in heaven.
Mel was a long-time member of Mansfield 1st Assembly of God Church, where he faithfully served his church community through singing in the choir, participating in several plays and cantatas, attending missions trips, as well as countless behind the scenes activities. Mel was a talented singer but preferred to stay out of the limelight most of the time. He was a quiet, yet hardworking man.
In his spare time he enjoyed being outdoors, tinkering on cars and lawnmowers, singing with the Fun Center Chordsmen, and Ashland Community Choir. Although he was soft-spoken, Mel’s quick wit and zingers always brought a smile to whoever was around to hear them. But above all else, Mel loved to spend time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He had a special love for children, often found surrounded by their laughter and joy. At church, he was a beloved figure, frequently sought out by kids who cherished his gentle presence and infectious smile. His steady presence and his constant pursuit to make others smile will be missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
He is survived by his sons David (Tonya) Zehner and Jonathan (Holly) Zehner, grandchildren Ayden, Colton, Lauren, Liam, Alanna, and Luke, great-grandchild Emilia, sister Ruby Pfeifer, as well as many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his wife, Melvin is preceded in death by his parents, brothers Harold Zehner and Roy Zehner, sister Maxine Zehner, sister-in-law Doris Zehner, and brother-in-law Stan Pfeifer.
The Zehner family will receive friends on Wednesday, December 11, 2024 from 10 am to noon in the Lexington Avenue Snyder Funeral Home. A funeral service honoring Mel’s life will be held immediately after at 12 pm. Pastor Brandon Smith will speak. Burial will follow in New Olivesburg Cemetery.
Snyder Funeral Homes is honored to serve Mel’s family and encourage you to share a fond memory or message of condolence on his obituary page at www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com.
