Melvin Loebs

Melvin Loebs, 88, of Aberdeen, South Dakota, passed away on March 11, 2026, at the University of Minnesota Medical Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Born on September 23, 1937, in Leola, South Dakota, to Edwin and Emgard (Mund) Loebs, Melvin grew up attending country school and began farming alongside his father at a young age. He later worked briefly for a local farmer before spending several years as a mechanic for Martin Edwards. In 1980, he joined the staff of Northern State University as a plumber, where he worked for 22 years until his retirement on October 1, 2002.

On September 24, 1966, Melvin married Helen Howell. The couple made their home in Aberdeen, where they raised their two children, Sheila and John. Melvin and Helen shared a close companionship, enjoying bike rides, walks, time with friends over coffee, and volunteering together at the Salvation Army. Active in their faith, they were longtime members of Calvary Baptist Church for 50 years before joining Northern Plains Baptist Church.

Melvin was known for his fun-loving spirit and sociable nature. He found joy in working outdoors in his yard, riding his lawn mower, and collecting decorative knickknacks. A former member of The Friendship Singers, he also enjoyed his time at the Senior Center. Above all, when asked what brought him joy in his final days, Melvin simply replied that it was being married to his wife.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Helen Loebs; his children, Sheila Loebs-Bustamante and John (Melissa) Loebs; grandchildren Emma Loebs, Benjamin Loebs, and Timothy Bustamante; and his brother, Leslie (Darlene) Loebs. Melvin was preceded in death by his parents, Edwin and Emgard Loebs; his sister, Sharlene (Darrel) Chapman; and his son-in-law, Art Bustamante. His faith remained central throughout his life, and he has now gone to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.