Melvin was born in Lead, SD, on May 5, 1938, to Sven and Lilly (Ahoe) Tammi and was the youngest of three brothers and two sisters. He attended Lead High School and graduated in 1965. He took over the family ranch which he worked his entire life until the very end.

In 1978, he married Claudette Cheney at the First Lutheran Church in Lead. Together they had two daughters, Colleen and Erin. Melvin spent his entire life devoted to his family and the ranch. He was well known for his expertise and was often relied on by neighbors when it came to ranching. He was a hardworking man that always put the needs of others before his own. He was a dedicated and loving father and provider. He loved his daughters with all is heart and was able to give them a wonderful childhood. He always used to say, "You are only young once." Melvin was a gentle man and touched all those that were blessed to know him. He always had a smile for everyone and a twinkle in his eyes. Both people and animals gravitated towards him, and he had a wonderful sense of humor. There was never a dog that he owned that wasn't his shadow.

Melvin loved to watch sports and was especially fond of the New York Yankees. In his earlier years, he enjoyed hunting with his brothers. He also enjoyed history a great deal. Melvin had an amazing ability to recall dates and events, even on his wife's side of the family. In his later years, he enjoyed trips taken with Claudette and her cousin Charlie. They took turns each year picking their destinations.

Melvin Sven Tammi, 79, of Deadwood, passed away on Saturday, March 24, 2018, at Lead Deadwood Regional Hospital.

Melvin is survived by his wife, Claudette; daughters, Colleen Casavan and Erin Tammi; grand-daughter, Evelyn Tammi; brother, Leo; sister, Lillian; and several nieces and nephews and their children.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Irene Karinen; and twin brothers, Clarence and Howard.

Visitation will be 5:00-7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 28, 2018, at Kinkade Funeral Chapel.

Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Thursday, March 29, 2018, at Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis with Pastor David Baer officiating. Burial will follow at Roubaix Cemetery.

Click on link to view service folder