Melvin LeRoy Kuhlman of Giese passed away on October 1, 2025, at the age of 90.

Melvin was born on February 10, 1935 to Eugene Sr. and Gladys (Ellson) Kuhlman in Giese, Minnesota. He grew up on his parents' farm in Giese and attended school in the area alongside his brothers and sisters.

On April 17, 1970, Melvin married the love of his life, RuthAnn. Together they built a home and a family, raising four children: Jason, Alan, Becky, and Cindy. After RuthAnn's passing, Melvin found companionship and many cherished years with his significant other, Shirley Kwapick.

Melvin's life centered around family, the family farm, hard work, and helping others. Whether it was lending a hand to a neighbor, farming, or spending time with his children and grandchildren, he lived his values every day. He took great pride in passing down the importance of hard work, kindness, and faith in family.

Melvin was also known for his jovial personality and sense of humor. He loved to play jokes and especially enjoyed jump-scaring those around him—a trademark that carried through to his very last days. His kind heart welcomed nieces and nephews to the family farm, where he not only taught them the value of hard work, but also the importance of laughter and fun.

Melvin is lovingly remembered by his children: Jason (Angie) Kuhlman and their children, Jacob, Samuel, and McKenna; Alan Kuhlman and his children, Russell, Emmitt, Carleigh, and Samantha; Becky (Luke) Johnson and their children, Vince, Copper, Addison, and Tate; and Cindy Kuhlman and her daughter, Riley.

He will also be remembered by his siblings Wes Kuhlman of Federal Way, WA; Lawrence Kuhlman of Finlayson; Darryl (Bobbie) Kuhlman of Minneapolis; and Kathy Good of Rush City; along with many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife RuthAnn Kuhlman; his significant other Shirley Kwapick; his parents Eugene Sr. and Gladys Kuhlman; brother Gene Kuhlman; and many other family and friends.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, October 8, at Dresser-Methven Funeral Home in Mora. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the service at 11:00 a.m. Interment will take place immediately afterward at the Finnish Lutheran Cemetery in Finlayson. A luncheon will be served at the Finlayson Community Center from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m.

Melvin's family wishes to thank St. Croix Hospice, Rushseba Station Staff, Mille Lacs Home Care, and the Aitkin County Health Workers for their loving care and support.