Francis Melton Obituary

Terry was born on June 14, 1946 and passed from this life on March 2, 2025. He was a life-long resident of Des Moines, attending Holy Trinity Elementary School, Franklin Junior High School, and Dowling Catholic High School.

On December 2, 1978 Terry married Phyllis Blood at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Des Moines. They subsequently had two sons, Colin and Drew.

Terry loved working on cars, men’s softball, Little League, hunting, and golf. He always got totally involved with whatever he was interested in. He coached both of his sons at Beaverdale Little League. He was on the Board, serving as president in 1991-1992.

He loved pheasant hunting; opening day was sacrosanct. He hunted for many years with his Uncle Paul, adding members to the “team” as time went on. As a way to improve his aim, he was a member of the New Pioneer Gun Club, shooting spring skeet league every year until 2020.

But his real love was golf, starting his playing at Waveland Golf Course in 1959. While he played many different courses over the years, including the Old Course, Waveland was his “home.” He was on the Waveland Golf Association Board for many years and led the Masters team for League play until this year.

Terry is survived by his wife, Phyllis (Blood), sons Colin (Raylee), Drew (Amber), sister Marva Lee Beghtel, grandchildren Melanie, Ryan, Reyce, Chance, and Astrid, 4 nephews, 6 cars, and many extended Melton relatives. He was preceded in death by his parents Francis and Thelma (Frost) Melton and an infant sister Judy.

At Terry’s request, there was a private committal at St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral on March 14, 2025. The family would like to invite friends to honor Terry on Saturday, April 5, 2025, from 3 to 5 PM at the clubhouse of his beloved Waveland Golf Course. Come raise a glass and tell a story. We’re sure there are many.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Waveland Golf Association, in care of Waveland Golf Course, 4908 University, Des Moines, IA 50311.

Arrangements by Iles Westover Chapel.

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