Melvin R. Fulkerson, Jr.

12/15/1945 — 1/5/2018

Service Date: 1/27/2018
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Melvin Russell Fulkerson Jr., 72, died Friday, Jan. 5, 2018, at his home, after a long battle with skin cancer.

Mel is survived by his wife of 481/2 years, Preya Fulkerson; his son, Robert Fulkerson; his four grandchildren, Eleanor, Nathaniel, Bridget and Margaret; his sister, Carol Myers; his niece, Tamara Gisselbaeck; his grand-nieces, Keira and Sloane; and many close friends.

Mel was a veteran of the Vietnam War, during which he specialized in avionics - airborne communications and navigation. He worked primarily on F-105 Thunderchiefs, the workhorse fighter-bombers of the war. While stationed with the Air Force at Nakhon Phanom, (NKP) Thailand, Mel met his wife Preya, who worked as a hostess at the non-commissioned officer club.

In August 1971, Mel left the military and returned to the United States with his wife and son to begin school. Mel graduated from the Missouri University of Science and Technology in Rolla, Mo., with a Bachelor of Science in nuclear engineering. After graduation, Mel traveled throughout the U.S. over a career of more than 30 years as a startup engineer at nuclear power plants.

Mel was an avid sportsman, angler and outdoorsman, pastimes he shared with his son.

In 2007, after the passing of his parents, Melvin and Ina (Ely) Fulkerson, Mel and Preya retired and bought a farm in Deary. They built a home overlooking a canyon on this property, and Mel often reveled in the majestic beauty that surrounded him. He regularly pointed out the beauty of mountains on the horizon, the stars in the night sky, and the countless species of wildlife he could observe. This home was for him the fulfillment of a lifelong dream.

Mel loved his home, his family, his friends and his community. When he wasn't engaged in chores, one could find him relaxing with a glass of Scotch to share stories with friends and neighbors. Mel had a warm sense of humor, a contagious laugh and a kind heart. He is already missed by those who loved him.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 27, 2018, at the Deary Community Bible Church, 4981 Highway 8 in Deary. A separate service will be held in the spring of 2018 to spread his ashes overlooking his home.

Donations in lieu of flowers can be sent to: Elwood School Historical Association, care of Laurie Chamberlain, Treasurer, 1573 Drury Road, Deary, ID 83823.