Melvin M. Book, 89, of Tovey, IL, passed away at 7:10 a.m. on Monday, October 29, 2018 at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, IL.

 

Mel was born October 18, 1929 in Stonington, IL, the son of Michael and Edna (Sims) Book. He later married his wife Jan, and she preceded him in death in 1994.

 

Following his schooling, Mel proudly served his country in the United States Army, and then reenlisted in the United States Air Force. He spent a great deal of time in Germany, and learned to speak, read, and write fluently in German. After his honorable discharge from the Air Force, Mel worked for the Ford Motor Company and Allis Chalmers as a tool and die maker for many years. He then retired from Meijer in Springfield after many years of service. Mel enjoyed his morning donut and coffee at the Kincaid Casey’s, and his afternoon visits at Bart’s Place in Tovey. He was a member of the V.F.W. Post 4495 in Taylorville, and a past member of the Taylorville Moose Lodge #1516.

 

He was also preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Vern, John, and Ed Book; and sister, Virginia Gordon.

 

Mel is survived by several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

 

Graveside Ceremony: 1:00 p.m., Thursday, November 1, 2018 at Camp Butler National Cemetery in Springfield, IL, with military honors being provided by the Department of Defense and Interveterans Burial Detail of Sangamon County.

 

Shafer-Perfetti & Assalley Funeral Home, 202 W. Franklin St., Taylorville, IL 62568 has been entrusted with ceremonies.

 

Please visit www.assalleyfuneralhomes.com to offer condolences to the family.