Melvin R. “Mel” Tompkins died on March 12, 2018 at his home in Hermiston at the age of 77.
He was born on April 8, 1940 in Deary, Idaho to Charles James Tompkins and Reta A. Guston Tompkins.
Mel was raised all across the United States. He joined the United States Navy and served until his honorable discharge. He moved to Hermiston and went to work for Marlette Homes in 1966, where he worked for more than 40 years before he retired. He enjoyed camping, fishing and race car driving.
He is survived by his sons, Steven Tompkins, Hermiston and Tim (Rhonda) Tompkins, Irrigon; daughter, Sheryl Markland, Tri-Cities, Wash.; brother, Bobby Tompkins, Pendleton; grandchildren, Anthony, Darcy, Samantha, Dezi, Greg and Steven; and numerous great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.
Mel was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Jim, Donny, Gary and Terry; and sisters, Evelyn, Norma, Mary and an infant sister.
A graveside service with military honors will be held on Saturday, March 24, 2018 at 11 a.m. at the Hermiston Cemetery.
Please sign the online condolence book at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com.
Burns Mortuary of Hermiston is in care of arrangements.
