Obituary of Melba M. Fonda

Mrs. Melba M. Fonda, 94, formerly of Fonda passed away peacefully at Nathan Littauer Hospital in Gloversville on Friday, July 22, 2011. She was born in Glen, NY, February 25, 1917 the daughter of the late Murvin and Helen Houghton Devenpeck. Melba was a life time resident of the area and attended local schools. Family was the center of her life. She was a devoted wife and was at her husband's side for seventy three memorable years. Melba nurtured her eight children using patience and humor and affectionately recalled times past with her 17 grand children and 25 great grandchildren. Melba was an active member within her small community particularly at the Fultonville Methodist Church. Her legacy of 94 years cannot be measured by money or means but rather being truly committed to what was in her heart- her family. She was an avid Yankee fan who enjoyed gardening, reading, baking and looking at family photo albums. For those who knew Melba, all were touched by her simple grace, quiet presence and whitty one liners. Her loving family includes, her husband Edgar L. Fonda, Jr. whom she was united in marriage on June 25, 1938, her children William E. Fonda of Fultonville, John M. Fonda of Fonda, Perry S. Catharine Fonda of Fultonville, Betty Gary Christman of Fultonville, Iva L.John Phillips of Fultonville, Jill David Manieri of Glenville, Suzanne Smith of Ft. Meyers, FL. She is also survived by 17 grand children and 25 great grandchildren. Nieces, nephews and cousins also survive. In addition to her parents she is predeceased by her daughter Carol Dillenbeck and three infant sons, David Frank and Jay. Funeral services for Melba will be on Monday, July 25, 2011 at 11 AM at the Jackson & Betz Funeral Home, 15 Main Street, Fultonville NY 12072. A calling hour will precede the service beginning at 10 AM. Rev. Nancy Pullen will preside. Interment will follow at Evergreen Cemetery in Fonda. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her memory to the Fultonville Methodist Church.