Melvin Robert Finkle

Melvin Robert Finkle, age 85, a lifelong resident of Pine Plains, NY passed away on Sunday, November 11, 2012 in Bethel, CT where he lost his courageous battle with cancer at the home of his daughter. Mr. Finkle was born January 13, 1927 in Pine Plains, a son of the late Russell and Christine (Wheeler) Finkle. He honorably served his country in the United States Navy during World War II and was a member of the American Legion Post 426 for 49 years. He took great pride in serving as one of the commanders of Post 426 during that time.

Mr. Finkle was also an active member and Deacon of the First United Presbyterian Church in Pine Plains. He involved himself in many of the church activities and volunteered his assistance to the church as needed. Mr. Finkle's occupation was a truck driver for Anthony Pulver Trucking in Pine Plains until his retirement. Melvin also owned and operated a waste disposal business for many years in Pine Plains and the local surrounding area.

Mr. Finkle is survived by two daughters, Sandra Mierzejewski and her husband Benjamin of Bethel, CT and Donna Campion and her husband Lanphier of Bradenton, FL as well as a sister, Kathryn Grace Mergendahl of Pine Plains, NY.; Six grandchildren: Kelli Duffy of Bethel, CT; Geoffrey Sidoli of Asheville, NC; Patricia Laurino of Marlborough, MA; Sally McGee of Stanford, CT; Stephen Campion of Sarasota, FL; and Gregory Campion of Orlando, FL.; 14 great grandchildren; 11 nieces and nephews; and 13 great nieces and nephews. Melvin was predeceased by a brother, Harold Finkle of New Jersey.

Calling hours are from 3 to 8 p.m. on Friday, November 16, 2012 at the Peck and Peck Funeral Home, 7749 S. Main Street, Pine Plains, NY. The American Legion will conduct services at 7 p.m.

Funeral services will be held at 11a.m. on Saturday, November 17, 2012 at the First United Presbyterian Church of Pine Plains, with Reverend Carol Miller officiating. Interment will follow in the Evergreen Cemetery with military honors. Arrangements are under the direction of the Peck and Peck Funeral Home, 7749 S. Main Street, Pine Plains, NY 12567

Memorial contributions may be made in lieu of flowers to the First United Presbyterian Church of Pine Plains, P.O. Box 313, Pine Plains, NY 12567; Hospice or the American Cancer Society.

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