Melvin Payson

Melvin Butler Payson, age 93, of Spooner, passed away Tuesday, April 18, 2017 the Community Care Center in Ladysmith, WI. Melvin was born on January 28, 1924 in Spooner to parents, Martha (Rambo) Payson and Edward Butler Payson. He attended public school in Spooner and then enlisted in the United States Army on June 26, 1943. He served in the 717th Tank Battalion, Company C, T-5. On February 21, 1946, Melvin was honorably discharged. Upon his return home, he met his sweetheart, LaVerda, and would frequently visit the Crossroads to dance with her. On October 14, 1967, Melvin was united in marriage to LaVerda (Briggs)(Hutton). After their union, the couple moved to Antioch, IL. Melvin was employed for 30 years by Johnson Outboard Motors in Waukegan, IL, as a Die Cast Set Up Operator. After their retirement, they moved back to Frederic. Melvin enjoyed hunting, fishing, driving his tractor, working on cars, or just about anything with an engine, as well as traveling around the country with LaVerda. Melvin was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Martha Payson; a brother, Arnold Payson; sisters, Leona (Donald) Messersmith and Iline (Howard) Schultz; and step-son, Warren Briggs. Melvin is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, LaVerda; step-children: Larry Briggs, Susan Norris, and Janet (Ken) Sandel; 7 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; and 1 great-great grandchild. Also surviving are siblings: Donna (Bernie) Hunter, Edward Butler (Norma) Payson Jr., and Wayne (Chris) Payson; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. The Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, May 4, 2017 at 11:00am (visitation from 10-11:00am) at the Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home in Webster. Interment will be held at the Oak Grove Cemetery in Webster with full military honors being rendered at the graveside. Arrangements were entrusted to Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home in Webster.