Jerry Lee Mellinger

Jerry Lee Mellinger, 76, of La Grande, died June 2 at Grande Ronde Hospital in La Grande surrounded by his family. A private family service will be held.

Jerry would have been 77 years old on his birthday, June 29, 1933. He was born in La Grande to Cecil Emery and Nanie Marie Lilly Mellinger. He was a man who loved his family and grandchildren. He enjoyed all the outdoor activities including hunting, fishing and snowmobiling.

Jerry retired from Coca Cola in 1991 after 33 years of service. He served in the Air Force from 1953 to 1957 and was a veteran of the Korean War.

He is survived by his wife of over 55 years, Mary E. "Bette" Mellinger; four sons and their wives, David and Debbie of Perry, Kevin and Jan of Tualatin, Kyle of Tigard and Keith and Sue of Clarkston, Wash.; 12 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren with two more on the way; and his sister, Beverly Vess of La Grande.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Marie Warnstaff; father, Cecil Mellinger; and stepfather, Clive Warnstaff.

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