Obituary of Melvin Dorpinghaus

Melvin Francis Dorpinghaus, 86, of Bonita Springs, Florida, formerly of Iowa City, passed away Tuesday July 9, 2024. 

Melvin was born in Scranton, IA to the late Hubert and Victoria Dorpinghaus. Melvin was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Lou Dorpinghaus, his parents, four brothers Jim Dorpinghaus, Edward Dorpinghaus, Leon Dorpinghaus, Eugene Dorpinghaus, sister Margaret Meis and sister Marie Dorpinghaus in infancy. 

Melvin is survived by his daughter Lori Patterson of Bonita Springs FL, daughter Julie (Dennis) Nevills of Fort Myers FL: and the joy of his life, his grandchildren Emeleigh Nevills of Fort Myers FL and Drake Patterson of Conway AR, three sisters Mary Heisterkamp of Manning IA, Judy (Mark) Laubscher of Boone IA, Carol (John) Kirby of Carroll IA, also many nieces and nephews. 

Melvin served his country in the United States Air Force from 1956-1960. Melvin worked for many years as a Tool and Die Maker in Iowa City, South Carolina and Arkansas. After retiring Melvin drove a school bus in Arkansas for 20+ years. Melvin moved to Florida a year ago to be close to his daughters. 

Visitation will be Saturday July 20th from 11:00 am - 1:00pm at Gay and Ciha Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Iowa City. Graveside service with Military Honors will follow at St. Joseph's Cemetery in Iowa City.  Memorials can be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church in memory of Melvin.