Lefty was born in Hosmer SD, April 12, 1927, to Edward and Anna (Job) Albrecht. He grew up on a farm near Wetonka, SD. He was drafted into the US Army and was stationed in Okinawa, Japan during WWII where he was an infantryman and a truck driver. After the war, he met Evangeline Jahraus where they courted and were married March 13, 1949. In 1956, Lefty and Vangie packed up their kids and belongings and moved to the Black Hills where he worked for the Homestake Mine for 34 years until his retirement in 1990. Lefty enjoyed getting his boys involved in construction projects, spending time at the local dance halls dancing, and on occasion sitting on the back deck having a "cold one" swatting flies - he was the master fly swatter! On any given day, he could be found listening to many different Polkas and Waltzes on the Jukebox! He was also a charter member of the Woodchuck Hunters of America.

Lefty was active in the VFW; he was a lifetime member and was given an award for flying the American Flag every day at his home. He was a very proud American and was more proud of his military service. He was also a lifetime member of the Homestake Veterans Association and the United Steel Workers. Over his life, he completed many construction projects including remodels of the Moose Lodge and signature bar at the VFW and shingling the roof of the First Lutheran Church.

Lefty will be remembered for his sense of humor often telling a joke or showing off his picture of his first girlfriend or just having a friendly conversation. He liked to B.S. and have a good time. He had a kind heart, always helping those in need and always willing to pitch in to lend a hand.

Melvin "Lefty" Albrecht passed away January 28, 2017, at the Belle Fourche Health Care Center.

He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Vangie; two daughters, Debbie (Ray) Stoor and Tami (Ralph) Long; three sons, Steve (Debbie), Mark (Sherilyn), and Brent (Julie); grandchildren, Dawn, Dusk, Adam, Wyatt, Cody, Meggan, Balie, and Matt; fourteen great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; two brothers, Paul, and Tom; and three sisters, Martha Jerke, Annie Bauer, and Marcella Bonnet.

He was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers, Milbert, Albert, Herbert, and Allan; and two sisters, Gertrude Krietel and Alice Wilson.

Lefty will be missed by his family and those that know him.

Memorial services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 4, 2017, at Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis, SD with a luncheon to follow at the Deadwood VFW. Inurnment will be 10:00 a.m. on Monday, February 6, 2017, at Black Hills National Cemetery east of Sturgis.

A memorial will be established.