Melvin Elias Lerch, 90, of Potsdam, New York died Tuesday, Nov. 23 at Canton-Potsdam Hospital.

He was one of 13 children born to Ruben and Margaret Kephart Lerch in Oakdale.

Mr. Lerch was a proud Navy veteran serving in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii during the attack by the Japanese where he lost many friends and comrades.

He married and subsequently divorced Vivian Santa Cruz in Oakland. He married Doris Cox in 1985 in Canton, NY.

He enjoyed dancing, reading, and spending time with his family. He was also very active in the local senior citizen clubs. In 2007, he went to live in the Maplewood nursing home in Canton, NY where he was well cared for and loved.

He is survived by his wife, Doris, of Potsdam, NY; son, Ken (Lyn) Lerch of El Cerrito; daughter, Elena Lerch of Eureka; stepdaughter, Connie (Dan) Maguire of Parishville, NY; stepsons, Robert (Karen) Cox of Parishville, NY, Jerald (Kathe) Cox of Tennessee; sister, Shirley Silva of Idaho; and eight grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the Maplewood Campus, 205 State Street, Canton, NY 13617.

Seymour Funeral Home in Potsdam, NY in charge of arrangements.