Our loving father, Melvin Mooney left this earth to begin his heavenly journey, on September 13, 2015.
Melvin arrived on 4/20/25, the youngest of 3 sons to James and Grace Mooney in Butte. He was very proud of his very Irish roots, his ancestors arriving from Waterford, Ireland.
He attended St. Joseph’s grade school and Butte High School. After graduating, he entered the Navy to defend his country during WWII. While serving in the Navy, he received commendation for his actions under fire in the Philippines. When the war ended he returned home to marry his high school sweetheart and the love of his life–Frances Myers. Melvin and Frances were blessed with 4 daughters, Nancy, Susan, Paula and Melanie.
Melvin began his career with the Montana Highway Patrol in 1950 and proudly served until he retired as captain stationed in Butte, in 1982. He rightfully earned the nickname "Captain Mel". One of his greatest achievements was launching the "Bear in the Air" traffic control program for the Montana Highway Patrol. Another notable achievement was teaching Accident Investigation and Driver Safety at MSU to new recruits in the Montana Law Enforcement Academy. After retiring from the Highway Patrol he was elected as Justice of the Peace and proudly served in that role for 20 years until he retired at the "ripe young age" of 78. Melvin retired with his long time fellow JP and friend Maryann Bartholomew.
Melvin was a member of St. Ann’s Parish and shared his beautiful Irish tenor voice as a member of St. Ann’s choir for over 50 years.
Among Mel’s favorite pastimes were spending time at the family cabin, and many of those times were with his special friend Betty Knoepke. He enjoyed boating, waterskiing, snow skiing, and motorcycle riding–all of which he worked hard at to become an expert. He was a long time ski patrolman at various local ski areas. He proudly carried a private pilot’s license and enjoyed flying with a local flying club and flying for the highway patrol. But, his favorite pastime was spending time with his very large, close family.
Melvin was preceded in death by his parents James and Grace Mooney, his wife Frances and brothers Jim and Joe. He was also preceded by his son-in-law, Creighton Barry.
He is survived by his four daughters and their families. Nancy Barry, Susan (Ron) Chatriand, Paula (Dan) Riley and Melanie (Greg) Peters. He is survived by his grandchildren Stacie (Mark) Peterson, Shawn (Darcy) Barry, Heather (RJ) Snyder, Megan (Brock) Bolin, Tyler (Erin Seyfreid) Chatriand, Jessica (Justin) Brown, Jacquelyn (Ben) Hupp, Matt (Natalie) Riley, Brendan (Tracey) Riley, Shannon Riley (Brad Legge), Mollie (Chad) Benjamin, Keelie (Colt) Anderson, Shelbie (Nick) Haynes, and Justin, Jared and Boomer Peters. Great-grandchildren include: Tygan, Maci, Jane, Josie, Nate, Cameron, Tanner, Addie, Finn, June, Kellen, Axel, Cage, Krew, Brax, Berklie, Hallie, Jamison and Mayson.
He will always be remembered for his ability to recall a joke or story for every situation, for his optimistic love of life, his respect for the law, and his integrity while serving in his roles in law enforcement. Additionally, no matter where he ate — it was the "best darn cheeseburger" he ever had in his life.
He taught us how to live life to the fullest and he led by his example as a gentleman and by his respect and tolerance for others.
There will be a vigil on Sunday evening, 9/20/15 at 7:00 pm at St. Ann Church. Mass of the Resurrection will be at 11:00 am, 9/21/15 at St. Ann Church with visitation beginning at 10:00 am. Interment will be at Holy Cross Cemetery immediately following the service. A reception will follow at the Butte Country Club.
