Edward James Melton Jr

Edward “Ed” James Melton, Jr. was born in Greenville, North Carolina, on February 14, 1961. He moved to Juneau, Alaska, in 1975 and graduated from Juneau-Douglas High School in 1979. He proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1980 to 1984 as an Indirect Fire Infantryman, stationed at Fort Hood, Texas. In 1988, Ed relocated to Wenatchee, WA, where he became a father in 1992 and 1994. He later moved to Chelan in 2007, where he lovingly stepped into the role of dad to three more children. In 2010, he married the love of his life, Carrie Melton, with whom he shared a strong and lasting bond. Ed was known for his quick wit and classic “dad jokes” before they were even called that. He was happiest outdoors—hunting, fishing, camping, and coaching his kids. A true gearhead, he loved tinkering with anything that had an engine, especially Jeeps, and never missed a chance to hit the trails or find a good mud pit. Always willing to lend a hand, Ed never passed by someone in need. He worked hard to provide for his family, retiring in 2022 after a long career as the beloved Franz "Bread Man." More than anything, Ed cherished time with his granddaughters, Hayden, Amiyah, and Aspen. His world revolved around them. Ed was preceded in death by his son Nate Hart, sister Shawn Wilson, father-in-law Don Hart, stepfather Jerome Painter, and father Edward James Melton, Sr. He is survived by his wife, Carrie Melton; mother, Joyce Painter; mother-in-law, Nancy Hart; children: Chase (Kelsey) Melton, Taran (Alyssa) Melton, Dakota (Zac) Buchmann, and Kiera (Jeremy) Piechalski; and granddaughters Hayden, Amiyah, and Aspen. He also leaves behind his sisters and brothers: Marie (Mike) Love, June (Doug) Stanaway, Philip (Suk) Melton of Manhattan, KS, Ann (Roger) Ooms of Las Vegas, NV, and brother-in-law Mel Hart. Along with extended family, he will be deeply missed by a host of nieces and nephews who adored him. Ed was a helper, a protector, and a family man to his core. His legacy lives on in the laughter, love, and memories he leaves behind.

Tributes

Edward James Melton Jr

February 14, 1961 - June 19, 2025