- Date Of Birth: July 21, 1919
- Date Of Death: October 1, 2005
- State: Minnesota
Melvin C. Brenhaug, 86, of Roseau, died Saturday October 1, 2005 in his home with his family by his side. He was born July 21, 1919 on the farm in the Roseau Area to Martin and Margrette (Skjoger) Brenhaug. He had to quit school in the 8th grade to help his folks with the farm. At the age of 17 he helped test cattle and then went to work for the CC Camps at Remer, MN, he also worked in the woods cutting pulp. He worked on the Green Peter Dam in Sweet Home, Oregon. He married Phyllis Inman December 29, 1969 in Roberts County, South Dakota.
He was a US Army Veteran serving in World War II. Following his honorable discharge, he started working for Zedlick Plumbing and Heating for 17 years and then started at Polaris Industries maintaining the plumbing and heating systems. He retired in 1971 due to his health condition.
He was a member of the American Legion Post 24, Roseau Volunteer Fire Department and a life member of the DAV of Crookston, MN.
Mel took great pride in his yard and garden. He loved to spend time outside in the garden, and chopping firewood. He was putting up wood until just 2 weeks prior to his death. He loved to spend time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, three sisters, one brother and his daughter, Lorrie Brenhaug-Hulst.
Survivors include his wife, Phyllis of Roseau; his daughters, Lareen (Ross) Brouillette of Roseau; Terri (Ron) Vertina of Pencer, MN; a son, Richard Smith of Carthage, TN; his sisters, Selma Matyze of Albany, OR; Bernice (Gene) Hams of Albany, OR; Myrtle Mossestad of Vista, CA; 9 grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
