Melvin "Mel" L. Schlafman

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Melvin 'Mel' L. Schlafman on February 1, 2025. He passed away peacefully at the Hilltop Home of Comfort in Killdeer, ND, at the age of 79. A memorial service will be held at 10:00 AM CST, Thursday, February 6, 2025, at PrairieView Church of God, Beulah with Pastor Brian Filibeck officiating.  Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church.  Burial will follow at 2:00 PM CST, at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery, rural Mandan, ND.

Mel was born on January 26, 1946, in McClusky, ND, and was a longtime resident of Beulah, ND. Melvin's commitment to service began in 1964, when he enlisted in the active duty Army. After completing basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, he served as an Army Medical Specialist before transitioning to a Heavy Equipment Operator. He proudly retired from the North Dakota Army National Guard in January 1995, achieving the rank of Sergeant 1st Class (E-7). One of the highlights of his military career was serving as the Platoon Sergeant for the heavy equipment unit that played a pivotal role in establishing the Veterans Cemetery in Mandan, ND, where he will be laid to rest. Mel's dedication to his country and community inspired all who knew him.

In his professional life, Melvin moved to Beulah, ND, in 1975, where he was known for his hard work, dedication, and skill as a D-11R Bulldozer operator in the local coal mines. He started at the Indian Head Coal Mine in Zap, ND, where he spent approximately 15 years before moving to Coteau Properties north of Beulah, ND, where he eventually retired.

In his free time, Melvin loved the outdoors and exploring. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating, camping, traveling, and watching the garden grow. He was determined to pass that love on to Shirley and the boys, making it a priority throughout their upbringing. One of his fondest memories was salmon fishing in Alaska. The one thing that could always bring a smile to his face was talking about his grandkids.

Mel was very well-known in his community, often seen driving around town, chatting with anyone who would listen, and keeping a watchful eye over "his" community. His absence will be truly missed by his family, friends, and "his" community.

Mel is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Shirley Schlafman of Killdeer; his three sons, Michael (Julie) of Appleton, WI, Mark (Linda) of Fargo, and Paul (Deanna) of Farmington, MN; his grandchildren, Leah, Lexi, and Parker; Hadley and Payton; and Josh, Jace, and Niko; and his sisters, Elaine Wahl and Linda Harr both of Turtle Lake, ND. He is preceded in death by his parents, John and Laura Schlafman; his brother, Loren; and his grandson, Devan Schlafman. His legacy of service, love, and dedication will forever be cherished by his family and friends.  Rest in peace, Mel. You will be missed.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dementia Society of America in his honor, https://dementiasociety.charityproud.org/donate

Arrangements conducted by Barbot Funeral Home, Beulah and Hazen.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Melvin "Mel" L. Schlafman, please visit our floral store.