In Loving Memory
Melvin B. Waterman, Sr.
February 1, 1938 - January 9, 2025

VISITATION
Friday, January 17, 2025
1:00 - 2:00 P.M.
Martin-Mattice Funeral Home
Emmetsburg, Iowa

MILITARY RITES
Friday, January 17, 2025
2:00 P.M.
Martin-Mattice Funeral Home
Emmetsburg, Iowa

Performed by:
V.F.W. Post #2295 ~ Emmetsburg, Iowa
U.S. Army Honor Guard

Melvin B. Waterman, Sr., son of Earl David and Nellie Grace (Riker) Waterman, was born February 1, 1938 in Waverly, Iowa.  He began his education in Waverly where he completed 9th grade.  During his freshman year in school, Melvin enjoyed participating in F.F.A.  His family then moved to Manchester where he attended high school for 2 years before moving to Toledo, where Melvin completed his high school education.

Following high school Melvin enlisted in the United State Navy serving four years before joining the United States Army.  He served 16 years in the Army, with two tours in Germany and two tours in Vietnam.  Melvin retired with an honorable discharge on September 30, 1977.  While in the Army Melvin received several medals and ribbons, some of which included the Army Commendation Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Republic of Vietnam Service Medal Meritorious Unit Commendation, Republic Cross of Gallantry with Palm and Four Oversea Bars.

Melvin made his home in Statesboro, Georgia after his discharge from the service before moving to Iowa.  He enjoyed hunting and fishing and was especially fond of animals.  He always had his dog with him and would be seen coaxing the squirrels to eat from his hand.  Melvin loved to visit with people and was always willing to help others any way he could.

Melvin passed away Thursday, January 9, 2025 at his home in Emmetsburg, Iowa at the age of 86.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Nellie Waterman; brothers, Harry, Donald, and Kenneth Waterman; three sisters in infancy and a sister, Mildred; and a son, Joseph Waterman.

He is survived by his son, Melvin B. Waterman, Jr. of Greenville, South Carolina; a daughter, Debra Elaine Booth of  Lexington, South Carolina; five grandchildren,  ten great grandchildren; as well as other relatives and friends.

Arrangements by Martin-Mattice Funeral Home