Melvin Victor Maeschen

Melvin Victor Maeschen, 86, of Farmington, New Mexico, passed away on June 7, 2025, in Farmington, New Mexico. Melvin was born on October 6, 1938, in Ethan, South Dakota to parents Martin and Pauline Maeschen.

Melvin was raised on a farm outside of Ethan, SD. He graduated from HS and enlisted in the US Army in 1961 and actively served for 2 years and officially discharged in 1967. Upon his return, he worked for the State Highway Department in Mitchell, SD where he later met his wife of 59 years, Beverly Rentschler. They married in 1966 and welcomed their son, Kevin, later that year. The family moved to Rapid City, SD to further his education at the South Dakota School of Mines. In 1972, he was appointed under the Commission Corp through the US Public Health Service where he was later awarded the rank of Captain. Their travels took them from SD to Northern California for 4 years and then to Reno, NV where they welcomed their daughter, Tami. In 1979, they moved to Farmington, NM where they have resided ever since. In 1994, Melvin began working for IHS-NECA, working all over the reservation between NM and AZ as an Engineer Consultant. Melvin officially retired in 2000 after 28 years of service. Retirement was short lived as he went back to work as a contractor for NECA and worked until 2015.

Melvin enjoyed antique Oliver tractors and was able to acquire 4 unique and beautifully restored machines. He and Bev would travel locally to various tractor shows to display their treasures and participate in tractor pulls against fellow members of the tractor club. Most recently, they purchased an off-road machine where they enjoyed riding with family and friends over Colorado mountains, Utah bluffs and even the Black Hills of South Dakota. Mel has always been dedicated to his family and enjoyed spending time with them no matter the event. They would travel to Houston for football games, or the Livestock Show and Rodeo. They rarely missed a school or sporting event showcasing their granddaughters.

Melvin is preceded by his parents Martin and Pauline Maeschen, and sister Joyce Wermer.

Melvin is survived by his wife Beverly Maeschen, son Kevin Maeschen, daughter Tami Brown, grandchildren Shayla Brown and Kelsi Brown.

A Celebration of Life will be held at their home at 816 Echo Lane in Farmington on August 9, 2025, from 1-3 pm with the presentation of honors at 2pm.