Melvin J. Pieper, 71, died Thursday, December 24, 2009 at Select Specialty Hospital, Fort Wayne, Ind. The Army Veteran was a member of the American Legion Post #241. He worked for Ellison Bakery for 42 years after retiring there he went to work at Meijer for 9 1/2 years. He attended St. Michaels Lutheran Church. He is survived by his loving wife, of 45 years Joan J. Pieper; daughter, Neva Phommachanh; brother, Wilbert Pieper; sisters, Marcella Harrison, Lucille Smithhart, Ruth Ann Hootman, Evelyn James; two grandchildren. He is preceded in death by daughter, Donna Ann Pieper in 1966; brothers, Oscar, Raymond & Norbert; sister, Dorothy Saylor. No Services. Burial at Covington Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Preferred memorials are to American Legion Post #241, 7605 Bluffton Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46809. "For ease & simplicity in ordering sympathy floral arrangements online, from the comfort & convenience of your home or office, please visit our website at www.memorygardensfloral.com. Numerous photographs for you to browse and a price range for every budget. This is a local floral ordering service and is under the complete direction & supervision of the staff at Covington Memorial Gardens & Funeral Home."