On May 17, 2026, at the age of 96, our beloved husband and dad, Melvin Howard Behr Sr., was called home to be with the Lord. He lived a life rooted in faith, devoted to Christ, and guided by God’s Word. His favorite verse was Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths.”
Melvin was born in Kenosha, Wisc., on December 3, 1929, to Dan and Hertha Behr. He graduated from Mary D. Bradford High School(Kenosha, Wisc.), attended Bob Jones University(Greenville, S.C.), and honorably served his country during the Korean War. Following his military service, he earned an Associate Degree from Spencerian Business College (Milwaukee, Wisc.) and ultimately served for many years as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Quaker Industries in Antioch, Ill.
Deeply committed to his faith and community, Melvin served in various leadership positions at Immanuel Baptist Church in Kenosha. Its congregation was frequently blessed by numerous special numbers sung by Melvin and his two sisters, Jan and Elayne.
Melvin was a man of remarkable generosity, always ready to offer support, warmth, and kindness. He had a fun sense of humor that brought smiles at unexpected times. Melvin was an avid golfer, playing in golf leagues and enjoying many rounds with extended family/friends. His annual golf outings with his two sons and son-in-law were always a highlight. Lorraine recorded golf scores each year, and the family would have fun reminiscing. Melvin and Lorraine loved to travel within the states and abroad, and many memories are preserved in photo albums.
After visiting Phoenix as winter residents at Anasazi Condominiums for over 30 years and living there full-time for five years, Melvin and Lorraine moved to Acoya Shea Assisted Living in Scottsdale in March 2024. He was very grateful for Acoya’s friendly staff and kind aides who cared for his daily needs. This beautiful facility was a perfect transition for Melvin and Lorraine.
At the center of Melvin’s life were his Lord and family. He shared an extraordinary 71 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Lorraine, a testament to a lifetime of deep devotion and shared memories. His legacy lives on through his three children, Donna May (Kevin) of Valparaiso, Ind.; Melvin Howard Behr Jr. (Lisa) of Scottsdale, Ariz.; and Doug Behr (Gina) of Burlington, Wisc. He was the proud grandfather of Heather Von Tobel (Peter), Holly Pelz (Nate), and Hillary Hauser (Graham), and a great-grandfather to eight grandchildren. Melvin is survived by his loving wife, Lorraine, and his caring sisters, Elayne Stipanuk (Andy) and Jan Housaman (Ron), both of Kenosha, Wisc.
Melvin will be deeply missed and forever celebrated by all who knew him. A Celebration of Life Military Service will be held for the family at the National Memorial Cemetery in Phoenix, Ariz., on June 8, 2026.
