Lt Melvin Fingarson

Lt Col Melvin H. Fingarson, retired, age 56, of Port Orchard died Sunday April 27, 2008. He was born July 29, 1951 in Bremerton to Melvin H. and Evelyn Swalling Fingarson. He attended school in Port Orchard, graduating from South Kitsap High School in 1969 before attending W.S.U. where he double majored in political science and finance, and received an MBA in business. Melvin joined the U.S. Air Force becoming a pilot where he flew C-141's, making the military his career, retiring with the rank of Lt Col after 22 years of service. After his military service Mel was a lifetime resident of Port Orchard. Mel was dedicated to his son and a strong supporter of the local schools having served as resident of PTA for 2 years. He managed the SK Ski and Snowboarding Program at Snoqaulmie Pass. Mel organized the KSBC Corp. which formed the Wolfpack, which he coached and managed for 2 years. He began the bat-a-thon fund raiser, which raised hundreds of dollars for local sports. His personal passions included boating, hunting, his dogs and his Rhodesia beach house, where he was serving as president of the home owners association. Survivors include wife Judi and son Melvin III. Visitation from 3:00 to 5:00 pm on Thursday, May 1st at Rill's Life Tribute Center in Port Orchard. Celebration of Life service at 11:00 am Friday, May 2nd , also at Rill's Life Tribute Center. Committal will be at Tahoma National Cemetery, Kent Washington on Friday, May 9th at 11:00 a.m. Remembrances may be made to the South Kitsap High School Athletic Department or to the Port Orchard Public Library.