Melvin Loren Erickson, 83, Sturgis, passed away Sunday, November 9, 2014, with his family at his side.

Visitation will be Wednesday from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Kinkade Funeral Chapel.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, November 13, 2014, at 11:00 a.m. at Kinkade Funeral Chapel with Pastor Harold Delbridge officiating. Burial will follow at Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis with military honors provided by the Sturgis Veteran's Honor Guard.

Mel was born June 23, 1931, in Sturgis, SD, to Elmer H. and Bessie May (Smith) Erickson. He grew up and received his education in Sturgis. He also was a member of the First Presbyterian Church. Mel served in the US Air Force during the Korean conflict.

Mel married LaVaughn Sudrala June 22, 1963, in Rapid City. They lived in Sturgis and Mel worked several places before accepting a position at Black Hills National Cemetery where he was the shop foreman and grounds keeper until he retired.

He was an all-around handyman and was hard-working. He enjoyed helping others with their projects. He loved to tease everyone and loved to laugh. Mel adored his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His face would light up when he saw them. He enjoyed talking about the weather and gas mileage. He was the best Dad and Papa you could ask for.

He is survived by his sons, Ed Sudrala, Vaughn (Debbie) Sudrala, Marshal Sudrala, and Kerry (Kim) Erickson; one daughter, Lisa (Ed) Hinker; grandchildren, Brandy Sudrala, Brian Sudrala, Amy Sudrala (fiancé, Tracy Veigel), Scott (Alison) Shaykett, Amanda Shaykett, Krista (Patrick) Shaykett-Nero, Brooke Erickson, Tioni Erickson, Erica (Ross) Bestgen, and Tyler Hinker; great-grandchildren, Leonardo, Willow, and Coral Nikkila, Rylen and Autumn Sudrala, Calvin Shaykett, Tyson Gonzales, Keigen Shaykett, Renley Shaykett-Nero, Kate, Tylee, and Ayla Bestgen, and soon baby boy Bestgen.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Bessie Erickson; his wife, LaVaughn; daughter-in-law, Wanda Sudrala; brothers, Richard, Lloyd, Wayne, Wilbur, Carroll, and Raymond; and sisters, Edna and MaryLou.

A memorial has been established to the Sturgis Vet's Club.

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