Thomas Carl Melzer April 23, 1952 – September 4, 2012 Thomas Carl Melzer, born in Denver, CO to Robert and Elizabeth Melzer, died suddenly due to heart complications at St. Mary's Hospital. He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Judy (Comer) Melzer of Grand Junction; father, Robert of Denver; sons, Douglas of Denver, and Tyler and wife, Molly and grandson, Oliver of Boston; brothers, James of Littleton, and Richard of Billings, MT. Tom grew up in Denver and attended Cherry Creek High School where he played lacrosse and soccer. Went to Colorado State University for undergraduate studies and veterinary school, where he met the love of his life, Judy. After shortly practicing veterinary medicine in Oregon and Franktown, CO, he established the Orchard Mesa Veterinary Hospital where he compassionately treated animals across the valley and enjoyed work alongside his coworkers so much that he never considered full retirement. He was raised an avid outdoorsmen and followed family tradition as third generation backpacker of the entire Colorado continental divide with his wife. He enjoyed taking his family on mountain climbs in Colorado and abroad. He helped coach soccer and skiing for his kids through their high school years. He enjoyed reading, biking and boating in Lake Powell with his wife and friends. He was past president of the Grand Valley Veterinary Medical Association and held office with the Colorado Veterinary Medical Association, Mesa County Animal Welfare Forum, and Grand Valley Veterinary Medical Clinic. He is remembered for his jokes and fun-loving lifestyle as well as his love for his family, friends, and dogs. Friends are invited to celebrate his life Saturday, September 8, 2012, at 1:00 p.m. at the James M. Robb Colorado River State Park in Fruita. $7 park fee, please bring chairs, shade, and potluck. Please donate to the "Zack and Tom Fund" through the Orchard Mesa Veterinary Hospital to help needy families get care for their animals.
Published in The Daily Sentinel on September 6, 2012