Melvin Steven Judge, 99

Melvin Steven Judge will be greatly missed and will be remembered for his wisdom, kindness, patience and loving nature by family and friends alike. He went home to be with our Lord and Savior on Sept. 22, 2011. 

Melvin was born April 21, 1912, in Springfield, Idaho, to William and Anna Judge. He had four brothers, Jim Judge, Alden Judge, Glen Judge, and Harold Judge, and a sister, Laura Peterson, who all preceded him in death.

In 1951, he married Cora Marie Riggins. He owned and operated a farm in Springfield, Idaho, on which they built their home. He studied radio and electronics. He changed careers and became an IBEW electrician. He taught others about his trade and helped them further their careers. Melvin was a 60-year member of The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. In 1963, they moved their family to North Idaho.

Melvin enjoyed piloting his own plane and making trips with his family. He loved photography and developed his own photos in a darkroom he created in his home. He also loved gardening and tending his fruit trees.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Cora Marie. He is survived by his children, Patricia Bymaster of Hayden, Emma Bell Farris of Pocatello, Mary Lee Craighead of Mesquite, Texas, Bert Ray Riggins of Hayden; 10 grandchildren; and numerous great- and great-great-grandchildren.

Viewing will be from noon to 12:45 p.m. with a funeral service beginning at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 27, 2011, at Yates Funeral Home, Hayden Chapel. Yates Funeral Home, Hayden Chapel, is entrusted with the care of final arrangements. Please visit Melvin's online memorial and sign his guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.