FENWICK — Richard Martin Melkild was born in Traverse City on Nov. 27, 1947, to Martin and Elizabeth (Garthe) Melkild. He passed away Aug. 7, 2010, in Fenwick, at the age of 62.Rick was an active Boy Scout in Troop 36, sponsored by Central United Methodist Church, where he was a member. During his last two summers of high school, Rick was a counselor at Camp Daggett near Petoskey. He also enjoyed sports very much. In 1966, he graduated from Suttons Bay High School.In the fall of 1966, Rick joined the U.S. Navy; in August of 1967, he was flown to Vietnam, where he worked with the First Marines in "Chu Lai." He was seriously wounded in December of 1967 and spent almost a year recuperating at the Philadelphia Naval Hospital, before being honorably discharged with a medical disability. He was a life member of the Disabled American Veterans. He was extremely proud of his country and his service to it.Rick moved back to Traverse City, which he loved very much. He enjoyed swimming, singing and walking through the woods, even though he had many trips throughout his life to veterans hospitals for treatment. The last two years, he has made his home at The Sheridan Home, a veteran's care home northeast of Grand Rapids.Rick is survived by his mother, Elizabeth "Beth" Melkild of Traverse City; a brother, Chris of Traverse City; a nephew, Paul Melkild of Lowell; and a niece, Heidi Browning of Grand Lake, Colo. He is also survived by aunts, uncles and numerous cousins and friends.Rick was preceded in death by his father, Martin, and his brother, David.Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 11, at Central United Methodist Church, with Pastor Dale Ostema officiating. Visitation will take place at the church at 1 p.m. Inurnment will be in the church columbarium.Memorial contributions may be directed to Central United Methodist Church.Please share your memories of Rick with his family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.comReynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services is serving the family.