Melvin Franklin Reetz

Melvin Franklin Reetz, age 97 of York, Nebraska went to his eternal home on April 14th, 2023 surrounded by his loving family.  Melvin was born August 7th, 1925 in Thayer, Nebraska to William and Anna (Zwiebel) Reetz.  He became a child of God through The Sacrament of Holy Baptism on August 30th, 1925 by Pastor F Evers at Zion Lutheran Church in Thayer, Nebraska.  He reaffirmed his baptismal faith through the rite of Confirmation at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in York, Nebraska on May 28th, 1939 by confirming pastor Reverend Herman Hopmann.  Melvin graduated from York High School in 1944.

On June 15th, 1947 Melvin was united in marriage to JoAnn Beaver by Reverend Herman Hopmann at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in York, Nebraska.  This 75-year union was blessed with two daughters Sharon Kay and Patsy JoAnn.

Melvin farmed until 1963 at which time he became the York County Assessor.  He held that office for 28 years retiring in 1991.  Melvin enjoyed working on and restoring old cars.  He had the joy of giving each of his grandchildren a restored antique car for their high school graduation.  He also enjoyed woodworking and creating gifts as a hobby.  Cooking and baking were another pastime he enjoyed.  Many people that knew Melvin, remember how he delighted in feeding everyone his runza sandwiches.  Melvin was a member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church in York, Nebraska.  As long as his eyesight allowed him, he faithfully read the bible and devotions daily.

Surviving and mourning his loss, while rejoicing in his gain are his two daughters and son-in- laws, Sharon and Jim Beins of York, NE/Estes Park,CO and Patsy and Jerry Haggadone of York, NE/The Villages, FL, four grandchildren, Jeff (Patsy) Beins of York, NE, Brian (Sherri Wattenbarger) Beins of Overland Park, KS, Stacy Rugg of Polk City, IA and Craig (Lisa) Stanton of York, NE, six great grandchildren, Ashlyn Beins of Lincoln, NE, Aaron Beins of Lincoln, NE, A.J. Beins of Lincoln, NE, Kylee Rugg of Polk City, IA, Jacey Rugg of Polk City, IA and Tori Jo Stanton of York, NE, one brother-in-law Robert Beaver of Fremont, NE and one sister-in-law Shirley Beaver of Winter Haven, FL, many nieces, nephews, other relatives and dear friends.

Melvin was preceded in death by his wife JoAnn, parents William and Anna Reetz, an infant brother, his twin brother and sister-in-law Elvin and Venecia Reetz, sister and brother-in-law Delores and Edsel Carlson, brother and sister-in-law Raymond and Shirley Reetz, sister-in-law Bobbi Jo Beaver, brother-in-law James Beaver.

A celebration of his life will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday, May 8^th at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 9^th & Beaver Avenue in York.  Melvin and JoAnn will be buried together at Greenwood Cemetery following the service.  Memorials in Melvin’s honor can be sent to Emmanuel Lutheran Church.

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