Melford “Mel” C. Christofferson, 91, of Iron River, passed away Saturday, March 2, 2013 at Northstar Health System, Iron River.

He was born July 4, 1921 in Iron River, MI, the son of the late Albert and Beda (Dalhberg) Christofferson.  He attended the Iron River Schools, graduating from Iron River High School with the Class of 1941.

He was a U.S. Navy Veteran of WWII, serving with the Asiatic Pacific Fleet. He was employed as Superintendent of Building and Grounds by the Wisconsin Public School System for 30 years.

Mel married the former Ruth Seilo on September 13, 1941 in Iron River, and the couple celebrated their 71^st wedding anniversary in 2012.  

He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church of Iron River.  Mel enjoyed clock building, golf and taking care of his lawn. He especially loved spending time with his grandchildren and family.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Arnold and Ambrose, and sisters, Mildred and Lillian.

He is survived by his wife, Ruth; son, Donald (Paraskevi) Christofferson of Iron River; daughters, Darlene (Arthur) Felber of Slinger, WI, Nancy (Jerome) Waldron of Iron River, and Julie (William) Groves of Rialto, CA; brother, Russell (Helen) Christofferson of Payson, AZ; sister, Donna Tate of Turlock, CA; many grandchildren, great grandchildren and two great, great grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews and extended family..

Visitation will be held Saturday, March 9, 2013 from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church of Iron River.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, March 9, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, with Rev Bonny Kinnunen to officiate.

Interment will be in Stambaugh Cemetery in the spring.  The West Side Veterans will accord Military Rites at the graveside.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to the Trinity Lutheran Church.

Funeral arrangements by the Jacobs Funeral Home of Iron River.