Dodge G. Melkonian

Dodge G. Melkonian, 93, of Clearwater, FL passed on to God surrounded by love at Morton Plant Hospital on Sunday, October 8, 2017. Born in Pontiac, Michigan to parents Krikor and Sirpoohi who survived the Armenian genocide. Oakland County was his home until he moved to Florida in 1989. A dedicated American Patriot, Dodge served as a pilot in the Air Force in WWII. After being honorably discharged from active duty, he remained in the reserves for 23 years as a Major. The love of music began at an early age of 8. He was 1st chair violin as well as tympani-percussionist in his state award-winning orchestra. His rich base voice was welcomed in choirs and Barbershoppers. Dodge had a varied work life in management for various organizations. The majority of his career, he was EVP of New York Carpet World, one of the largest flooring companies world-wide. Retirement allowed him the time for his avocation of rehabbing properties. He had a love for travel that included all 50 states and 190 countries. He believed in brotherhood and in giving back to his communities both in Michigan and Florida. Dodge’s ties to Pennsylvania began when he met Jill [nee Charles] in 1983. After courting and proposing 3 times and winning over her mother, Edith Charles, they were married in 1984. He not only fell in love with her, but also with her family and Lancaster County. There were countless driving trips from Michigan and Florida to PA. He will be especially missed by his sister and brother-in-law, Pat & Joe Gilmartin, their sons and their ladies and the rest of the Family of Marietta. The extended families of the Charles’ and Weavers will remember him with love. He will be missed most deeply by his devoted Wife & Soul Mate, Jill. This man loved his Family, extended Family & Friends that became Family. A life well-lived, his smile will live on forever. Pastor Dave Forwood will officiate at the Memorial Service to be held at Bainbridge Cemetery, Bainbridge, PA on Friday, November 3, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. The day is noted as Dodge & Jill’s 33rd wedding anniversary. Memorial contributions may be made to Community Bible Church, 331 Anderson Ferry Road, Marietta, PA 17547 and Red Rose Honor Guard, P.O. Box 8601, Lancaster, PA 17604-8601.