Leo F. Melchior, 94
Finally at rest, Leo F. Melchior of Grafton passed away peacefully on February 15, 2024. He was 94.
Born in Algoma, WI on October 11, 1929, Leo was the son of Leo M. and Petronella (nee Biese) Melchior. The middle of 9 children, Leo spent much of his childhood with his siblings, enjoying time outdoors and later seeking employment around town. He spent his teenage years working odd jobs, including at a local butcher, bakery, and Algoma Net Company.
After graduating from high school, Leo left for Milwaukee. Beginning in 1948, he served two stints in the Army and was honorably discharged for a second time in 1953. He then continued to build his resume, working for the Milwaukee Railroad, the telephone company, and ultimately, the Milwaukee Police Department. He retired after 33 years on the force. Never content to sit around, he drove for the Johnson bus company in retirement.
In 1960, Leo married Margaret (nee Poletzki). The pair were a well-suited match, despite Marge’s desire to go out for a nice meal and Leo’s desire to save an extra dollar. They were members of St. Bernadette’s Parish in Milwaukee and later St. Joseph Parish in Grafton. They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 2010, months before Margaret passed away.
Leo enjoyed hunting, fishing, staying busy, and a good libation. He was a longtime member of the NRA and Saukville Gun Club. He was always the first to offer you a hand, his portion of anything, or secondhand advice - usually from his brother Pete.
In later years, Leo continued to be lively and fiercely independent. Remaining in his home until the end, Leo - insisting he wasn’t an invalid - would regularly mow his lawn “for the exercise”, split logs, whack weeds with a cane in one hand, chainsaw bushes, fiddle with his patio canopy cover, and build train sets for his great-grandson. His home was always open to his family, friends, and neighbors. Walking in the door, we would never know what new activity Leo would be up to. He enjoyed keeping in touch with his siblings and visiting family in Algoma. He had a remarkable memory, recalling specific costs of purchases from sixty years prior. We will most remember his ever-present sense of humor. Even at the end, he joked he was “dying for a drink.”
Both his parents, his wife, and six of his siblings - Jeanette (Page) Knipfer, James, Robert, Jerome, Richard (Mary Ann), and Father Frank - preceded Leo in death. He is survived by two brothers, Tom (Marilyn) and Pete; his sister-in-law Dorothy; his three children, Jeff (Cathy Osborne), Lisa (Bob) Meier, and Leo Michael (Jennifer); five grandchildren, Angela (Kyle) Halleman, Tony (Alexis) Meier, Joey Meier, Lindsey, and Leah; and his great-grandson, Leo, who carries on his name and vigorous spirit.
Our family would like to extend gratitude to Leo’s wonderful neighbors who have gone above and beyond keeping an eye on him over the years - it truly provided an extra peace of mind. Our appreciation further extends to the incredible teams at Ascension Columbia St. Mary’s, Horizon Home Care & Hospice, and Lawlis Family Hospice for their care and compassion in Leo’s final days.
Memorial Mass 12:00 PM on Saturday, March 16, 2024, at St. Joseph’s Parish, 1619 Washington St, in Grafton, WI, with Military Honors to follow. The family will greet relatives and friends on Saturday at the Church from 11:00-11:45 AM and at a reception to be held following the Service. Private family inurnment at St. Adalbert Cemetery in Milwaukee. Memorials in Leo’s name to Lawlis Family Hospice or St. Joseph Parish, are appreciated.
Online condolences can be forwarded to the family at . The Eernisse Funeral Home-Michael Schramka Associate, is assisting the family.