We look forward to seeing our loved ones again because of the Bible's promise at Acts 24:15 "And I have hope toward God, which hope these men also look forward to, that there is going to be a resurrection of both the righteous and the unrighteous."

Mel used to be one of the regulars having coffee at Coffee & Tea Unlimited when they were downtown on 4th St next to the tracks then later at Miracle Mile location. Everyone thought the world of Mel. He was a kind soul and a simple man. His El Camino meant the world to him. Unfortunately my wife and I were driving on 12th St that morning and came by about a half hour after the accident happened. I knew it was Mel as soon as I seen the car. It was very sad.

Rest in peace Mel, hope there's coffee for you in heaven.

Mel I worked at Burger King for well over 29 years. And I got you your coffee every time you came in. You always put a smile on my face. I could set my watch by you. You sure will be missed buddy. You would tell me a joke or show me something silly in your pocket. Some things I best not mention...hehe. I met you when I worked at the BK on South Broadway by the fire station. We go back a long way. Years ago when I was in the hospital you took the time to get my address and send me a card. I sure am going to miss you buddy. RIP and am so glad you will once again be able to see your beloved wife. Say hello to Neil in heaven!?

I met Mel about ten years ago at one of his favorite stops, Burger King. At the time I was toting two infants and a toddler, he would always stop and talk to the kids and I. On the days I didn't have my charges with, I would sit and talk to Mel and his buddies. He was a very kind sole and always had a lot to talk about, I remember him talking about his wife and I wish I could find a love that would last from earth to eternity. Now he will be reunited with the love of his life, but he will be sadly missed by many that he came in contact with.

For someone I have never met before, Mel will forever remain in my heart. My husband and I were the first ones there trying to help Mel when the accident occurred. We wish we could have done something more to save him...we are so very sorry for your loss. We have thought about him everyday, saying many prayers for him, his family and friends. May God bring you peace.

Kim and Craig Stolp

I just wanted to reach out and tell you how sorry I am for your loss. My heart has been broken for Mel's friends and family since Friday morning. My mom and I were one of the few people at the scene of the accident before the police and ambulance and we tried to help Mel. I think about him and his family several times a day and I think he will stay with me for the rest of my life. I pray that God will comfort all of you mourning his loss. I have been and will continue to pray for you. 

I met Mel about 15 years ago. We became close friends immediately. At one time Mel said he wished that he could get the lyrics to a song that reminded him of his wife and assured him that he would see her again in heaven.  I was able to download the lyrics for him and he was so appreciative it brought tears to his eyes. Mel got married on December 8, 1956; at the age of 26 he married his sweetheart only to be heartbroken 3 short months later when she un expectantly passed away. She was pregnant at the time and he said he did not know what caused her death. He thought maybe it was a blood disease. I was always amazed as to how much he still loved and cherished his wife. Although he was not a religious man, he always was certain that he would see her again in heaven. I sure hope he is talking to her today and has taken some time to tell her about me.

I spent many hours talking with Mel about the goings on in society and the news of the day. He was a humble man and was always amazed with the technology of today. I would look things up for him on the Internet and he just could not believe it was possible to find answers so quickly.

As I did not have a relationship with my father, I considered Mel to be my dad. Mel almost never talked about his feelings but I will never forget what he told me one day. Mel said "If my wife was still alive and gave birth to a son, I would have wanted him to be just like you." At the time this meant so much to me and it really solidified our relationship. I always gave Mel a Father's Day card and we exchanged gifts at Christmas. He really was my "real" dad.

I loved Mel Kirkeeng and will miss him so. Goodbye my friend and I hope that you are with Caroline and dancing the nights away!