Melvin M. Nechvatal

 Melvin M. Nechvatal, age 91, of Lancaster, died peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, July 14, 2013. He was born on February 26, 1922, in Highland, the son of Matt and Mary (Melkas) Nechvatal. Melvin was raised on the family farm in Montfort. He later moved to San Diego, CA, and served his country in the United States Navy. It was during this time that he met the love of his life of sixty-seven years, Kathy, who survives him. They were united in marriage on March 5, 1946, and moved to Kansas City where he attended the Kansas City Watchmakers School for two years. They moved back to Lancaster where Melvin practiced his watchmakers skills until retiring in 2011. In 1963, he also earned a degree in camera repair, which he did from a shop in his home. In October of 1961, Melvin and Kathy took over ownership of the Pine Grove Motel, which they owned until 1978.

Survivors include his wife, Kathy; their four children: Dennis (Mary Bero), Fae (Greg Niglis) Steven (Linda), and Matt; six grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, July 20, 2013, at 10:30 at St. Clement Catholic Church in Lancaster with Father William Seipp officiating. Burial was in St. Clement Cemetery, Lancaster. Family and friends called on Friday, July 19, 2013, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at St. Clement Catholic Church in Lancaster and on Saturday from 9:30 a.m. until time of services.