I'm so glad to see that Joe had a wonderful family and career. We lived at the Theta Chi house together for three years, Joe was a good brother and friend. Thanks, Scott, for the notice in the Purdue Alumnus. Rich Moran

Joe just always seemed to be there. I can't remember when he wasn't. We both shared the Federal Building for Lord knows how many years. Our kids were contemporaries through chuch and school. Various chuch functions. Most recently as fellow ball room dancing students. Joe and I both had two left feet. Joe was the kind of guy who made our country, state, city, and church great. We have thrived because of Joe and men like him. I can give him no greater tribute. I miss Joe a lot and hope for God's peace to Joe's family and friends. Richard Knudsen

We are so sorry for your loss. Joey was such a kind gentle man. He had a heart of gold. We are so happy we saw him last winter. He will forever be in our minds & hearts. You just can't get any better person than Joe Melnyk. He will be forever missed.

It's still hard to believe that Joe is gone. He was always someone to count on and to be there when needed. (I remember borrowing the truck a few times.) But more than that - much more - he was steady and brought joy into our lives. He was a true friend. That can't be replace, but I do know that God is already working good from this sadness through the remembrance of Joe's life. We love all of you Melnyks! Alice

Big Joe was such a dear man. A role model to us all in the lessons of kindness, work ethic, parenthood and much more. He will be remembered by so many, including everyone in my family who even just met him a limited number of times. I am a better person for having known Joe Melnyk. Sending light and love... Cara

Knowing Joe for a very long time, he has always been a true joy and friend. After Gary's surgery, he came and brought soup and we enjoyed his visit so much. He will be missed by so many as he was a great man. Joe, was they type of person you knew would be there for you if needed. Linda & family we are with you in thoughts and prayers. Jeanie & Gary Collier

We first met Joe on one of the famous "Melnyk" trips. As first time travelers he took us under his wing and made sure that we knew when and where to go at all times. We also remember that he was the international telephone holder and was happy let us use it when necessary. As mentioned at his service, it was very obvious from the start that he was a big supporter of the Boilermakers. We also remember some very competitive BooRay games when his concern for self was obvious! We will miss you Joe and will always remember your humor and love for people.

Mary Linda, I feel sad that your time here with Joe has been cut short. You made a exceptional team, always loving and serving others, giving out joy wherever you went. I treasure every memory I have of you both--and always will. The days ahead will be too long and difficult, but I can tell you it won't always hurt this much. Be patient with yourself. The Lord is our shepherd who leads us THROUGH the valley. My love and prayers...

His last contact to me was the day before he passed on. It came in the form of a text message. He said "How are you doing?" I replied "I'm doing ok, How are you doing?" He responded "I'm doing ok since you are doing ok." -Scott Melnyk

I was so sad to hear about the sudden death of Joe.I thought he was so
kind and friendly, and always enjoyed seeing him in the office picking
up things for you.

Please know that you and your family are in my prayers.I will not be
able to attend the memorial service on Thurs,I am flying to Destin on
Wednesday evening. I think it is such a blessing that he did not suffer
or have a lingering illness. What a wonderful day to arrive in Heaven,
Easter, the day of celebrating God's power over injustice,sin,and death.

-Valerie Anderson

I have such fond memories of y'all, and I am incredibly sad at Joe's passing. After all these years I can still hear his voice; for some reason, the way he said "Michael" was so distinctive. The times I spent over at your house growing up are treasured memories for me, and "Mr. Joe" was such a big part of that. 

I know my folks are headed your way, but I wanted you to know that you, Mike, and Scott are all on my mind as well. -Robert Hallford

Please know that Joe was truly one of the Great Guys and he will be greatly missed. But also know that on this Easter Sunday, we all know that there is live after death. It is what we Christian celebrate as our liberation from the grave. - Bob and Jane Stammer

He was such a dear on the trip to Israel. I teased him calling him the "Shepherd"because he was always rounding up people and steering them to the bus. I will miss his kind smile and gentle soul.
Chuckles Collins

I do now and know I will miss Joe for the rest of my life.
No doubt God got the better end of this.
Jim Woolems

My heart is aching for the loss of Joe. What a sweet and funny guy. I loved his friendship in Disciple class and his cute jokes and laugh. Heavens gain. A whole is left in my heart.

A couple of weeks ago, when I found out I had to have surgery, we got a call from Joe. He loved to make soup and he knew we liked it, so he made some to bring us. When he came he stayed for a visit which we wouldn't take anything for now. We talked about many things--his disciple class, our SS class, questions about the Bible, college days--all kinds of things. We laughed a lot. God gave us that time with our friend and we are thankful.  P.S. The soup was good, too! Susan Sloan

I was very saddened and shocked to hear of Joe's passing. He was a very sweet man who I got to know at the Y over the past couple of years. He became sort of a grandfather figure for me. I will miss him. - Brett from the Maryland Farms Y

I am so gravely saddened by losing him - just talked to him last week & still hear his voice in my head. Carolyn Darr

This loss is difficult to realize for us, as I know it is for you. We have many fond memories of Joe. He was a fantastic person, and will be missed by all who knew him. Blessings, Andy and Keith