Robert Melancen

Robert Melancen, 82, of Pecatonica, IL went to be with the Lord on September 17, 2016. Robert was born July 27, 1934 to Arthur Edward and Emma Elizabeth Melancen. He attended high school through the 11^th grade and seminary school for one year. Robert married Virginia Lee Hunter in 1955 in Hot Springs, AR. They had a love affair for 42 years until her passing in 1999. Robert pastored the Morning Star Baptist Church in Hot Springs for four years; as well as, owned and operated a plumbing company throughout his life.  He moved to Pecatonica in 1969, then to Dallas, Texas in 1981, and then to Malvern, Arkansas in 1991. In 2010 he came to live with his family in Pecatonica, where he spent many wonderful years. During this time he ministered for two years at the Landmark Baptist Church. He enjoyed studying the Bible, spending time with family, and visiting with friends at the coffee shop. Robert suffered a stroke in April 2015 and lived the rest of his life in Freeport IL at the Pearl Pavilion Nursing Home until he passed away peacefully while surrounded by his loving family.

Robert is preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Emma Melancen, his wife of 42 years, Virginia Lee Hunter, three brothers, Arthur Jr., Phillip, and Billy Melancen and a sister Jean Ruff.

Robert is survived by his four children, Dan Melancen, Dale (Mary) Melancen, Duane (Joy) Melancen and Melanie (Charles) Kerr all of Pecatonica, Illinois; seven grandchildren, Sara Melancen of Phoenix, AZ; Justin Melancen of Malvern, AR; Dustin (Beth) Melancen, of Pecatonica, IL; Matthew (Margaret) Melancen of Crystal Lake, IL; Kyle (Abbie) Kerr of Rockford, IL; Rachel (fiancé Joe Hehir) Melancen of St. Petersburg, FL; and Rebecca Melancen of Pecatonica, IL; also five great-grandchildren, Molly, Dawson, Tristan, Isabella, and Gracelyn, his brother, Jim (Paula) Melancen of Malvern, AR; and Marion Proulx of Wilmington, DE.

Visitation will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, September 24, 2016 at the Atkinson Funeral Home Chapel in Malvern, AR with the funeral service following at noon. Robert will be laid to rest in the Lone Hill Cemetery next to his loving wife Virginia.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in memory of Robert can be made to (FHN Hospice).

Arrangements entrusted to Atkinson Funeral Home in Malvern. Guests may sign the online register at www.atkinsonfuneralhome.net