Melvin Duane Ash, 61, of Birmingham, IA passed away on November 10, 2026, at the University of Iowa hospital surrounded by his loved ones. Cremation has taken place as part of Melvin’s final wishes. A graveside service to remember Melvin and honor his life will be held at the Mt. Moriah Cemetery near Douds beginning at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 17, 2026. Memorial contributions honoring Melvin may be addressed to Michaele Cook, 11924 Gray Ave, Douds, IA 52551. Online condolences may be left online at:
www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com.
Melvin Duane Ash was born on August 18th, 1965, in Burlington, IA to loving parents Melvin and Karen (Maxwell) Ash. Melvin would spend his childhood on his family’s farm North of Douds, IA where he would learn the value of hard work and dedication. Upon graduating from Van Buren High School in 1984, Melvin served his country for a time in the United States Army as a medic. He would later return from military service to help back at home.
Melvin was a dedicated, hard-working man of many hats, holding several jobs over the years with the most notable being Rockwell in Fairfield, Hillphoenix in Keosauqua, Hearth N’ Home in Mount Pleasant and Soucy in Fairfield. In 2004 Melvin began a new chapter after meeting the love of his life, Pam Carter. The pair would go on to own and operate the bar in Birmingham as partners until 2024. Melvin would shortly retire in 2025 and spend his newfound time with Pam and family.
When he wasn’t at work, Melvin’s hobbies included shooting pool with his friends or watching them race. He often spent time with family at their campsite along the river. However, Melvin’s favorite past-time of all was being with his granddaughter Macey. They could often be found playing games or enjoying ice cream.
Left to honor and share Melvin’s memory is the love of his life, Pam Carter of Birmingham; his mother, Karen Ash of Birmingham; a sister, Angie Talbert of Douds; stepson, Patrick Lennox of Douds, stepdaughter, Michaele (Tyler) Cook of Douds; grandsons, Parker and Preston Lennox of Batavia; a granddaughter, Macey Cook of Douds, two nieces Brandi Talbert and Luna Williams both of Douds and step daughter-in-law Heidi Frescoln of Batavia.
Melvin is proceeded in death by his father, Melvin and brother, Randy Ash.
Melvin will be greatly missed by all but especially by his granddaughter Macey Cook and niece Luna Williams.
