Melva Jean (Purkey) Carlson

Melva Jean M. Carlson, age 87 of Hammond, Indiana passed away on Monday, July 5, 2021.  

Melva is survived by her Children: Karl (Char) Carlson, Roxane VanTil, Glen (Lois) Carlson, Dawn (Clifford) Haring, Jr. and Bonnie (James) Bruce; 7 Grandchildren, 8 Great-Grandchildren and 2 Great-Great-Grandchildren; sister, Joan Summers; many nieces and nephews.  Melva was preceded in passing by her parents: Almonzo and Josephine Purkey; husband, Bob Ray Carlson; 3 grandchildren; brothers, Jerald (late Urzela) Purkey and Delbert "Bud" (late Connie) Purkey; many cats and dogs.

Melva was born and lived in her current home in Hammond, Indiana for over 67 years.  She graduated from St. Paul Lutheran School in 1948 and Hammond Tech High School in 1953.  In High School days, she would always be seen skating at Hammond Roller Dome.  Right after graduation, Melva married Bob Ray at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Hammond. She was in the Civic Choir in earlier years and joined the Order of the Amaranth where she was a member for over 20 years.  Melva was the photographer in the family.  She was very sentimental, still having her first love letter in possession from her beloved Ray, whom everyone else knew as "Bob".  Music was her passion and she loved to sing.  Her favorite pastime was ceramics and previously owned The Casting Shack in the 70's and 80's.

A Memorial Service for Melva Jean and Bob will take place on Friday, July 30, 2021 at 7:00 PM at LaHayne Funeral Home 6955 Southeastern Avenue Hammond, IN 46324 with Pastor Donald Stock officiating.  The Order of the Amaranth will also be leading a prayer during service time  Friends are invited to visit with the family on Friday, July 30, 2021 from 4:00 PM until the time of Service at 7:00 PM.  Private burial with take place at a later date.

For questions regarding service, please call LaHayne Funeral Home at 219-845-3600.

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