James Allen Melsha

James Allen Melsha

Keizer, Ore.

James Allen Melsha was born to William and Truly Melsha on June 16, 1944, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. James passed away on March 7, 2023, in Salem, Ore., with both of his loving daughters by his side, at the age of 78. He graduated from Jefferson High School in Cedar Rapids in 1962. James married Roberta LaBelle Wells on July 31, 1965, at Calvary Baptist Church in Cedar Rapids. James and Roberta were married for 55 years before Roberta’s passing on Sept. 18, 2020.

James and Roberta moved to Keizer, Ore., where James worked for the sporting goods store Stout’s for a short time. In the early 1980s, he went to work for the state of Oregon with the Oregon State Police at the State Capitol Building and as a range master. He retired from the OSP in 2003 and continued to work for several more years as a retiree.

James enjoyed travelling to many places with Roberta and his family. He had many things that he was passionate about, wildlife and scenic photography, collecting and reading books, cooking and woodworking.

James is survived by his daughters, Jennifer Berry (Robert) of Salem and Tonia Brechtel (Michael) of Salem; seven grandchildren, Anthony, Andrew, Elizabeth, Matthew, Timothy, William and Michaela; five great-grandchildren, Brandon, Sophia, David, Caden and Nathan; his brother, Don Melsha (Carolyn); as well as many nieces and nephews.

James was preceded in death by his wife, Roberta LaBelle (Wells) Melsha; father, William Edward Melsha; and mother, Truly Delores (Kloubec) Melsha Waskow.

Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, March 24, at the Czech National Cemetery in Cedar Rapids. A location and time for gathering to follow the burial is to be determined.