Melvin T. Ickes

Rhinebeck – Melvin Thomas Ickes, 95, a longtime resident of Rhinebeck, passed away on March 23, 2023.

Born in Claysburg, PA on August 10, 1927, he was the son of the late Ralph and Jennie (Stine) Ickes. Mel was raised in Pennsylvania. Following his service in the US Army he attended college in Baltimore.

On April 27, 1957, he married Barbara Benedict at the United Methodist Church in Poughkeepsie, NY. Together they traveled extensively around the world. Barbara, the love of his life, predeceased Mel in 2014. Mel enjoyed classical music, concerts at Bard and Vanderbilt Mansion, summer vacations on Cape Cod with his family, oysters, dogs, and playing bridge with Barbara and friends.  Above all this, Mel and Barbara were dedicated to their grandchildren; often caring for them after school and never missing a birthday, game, concert or recital.

Mel along with his wife Barbara, were dedicated members of the Church of the Messiah in Rhinebeck. Mel was the Sunday School Director, served on the Vestry, organized the Mad Dash fundraiser races, and sang in the choir for many years.  He also served many years on the Starr Library board of directors, and as a volunteer at Northern Dutchess Hospital.   

Mel worked for IBM in Poughkeepsie and Kingston for 40 years until his retirement in 1989.

Mel is survived by his sons, Thomas, and his wife Loretta of Thornton NH, and Mark of Rhinebeck; his grandchildren Sarah (John Walsh), Daniel, Alexa (Alex Volpi), Jordanna (Nilen Vyas), and Maxwell; a great-grandson Connor. In addition, Mel is survived by two sisters Betty Progar and Vera Shilcosky; many nieces and nephews, his daughter-in-law Charlene Sclafani, and his faithful dog and nap companion Milo.

He was preceded in death by three sisters, Violet Meyers, Martha Hoyer and Virginia Daley; and three brothers Harry, Charles and Bill Ickes.

Memorial Calling Hours will be held at the Dapson-Chestney Funeral Home, 51 W. Market St., Rhinebeck, on Wednesday, March 29, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

A Memorial Service will be held at the Church of the Messiah, 6436 Montgomery St., Rhinebeck, on Thursday, March 30 at 10:00 AM.

Memorial donations in honor of Melvin can be made to the Starr Library, 68 West Market St., Rhinebeck, NY 12572.

To send an online condolence, please visit www.dapsonchestney.com

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