Melvin (Mel) George Townsend, 94, of Victor NY, passed the evening of the 15th of August 2023.

Mel was born on the 20th of February 1929, in DePeyster, NY, to Charles Townsend and Mary ‘Leola’ Creighton Townsend. He grew up on his family farm in Heuvelton, NY and attended Heuvelton High School, before graduating from Ogdensburg Free Academy. After graduation he relocated to Newark, NY where he met his future wife Beverly (Bev). After marrying they relocated to Dundee, NY where their daughters, Patricia (Pat) and Carol, were born. Their young family finally set roots in Pumpkin Hook, NY, where Mel and Bev purchased the local store and opened Townsend’s Grocery, which they ran from 1963 until their retirement in 1989.

During his time in Pumpkin Hook, Mel became very involved with the Farmington Fire Department, where he was President from 1967-70 and 1991-1993, chief from 1971-77, and Firefighter of the Year in 1977. In addition to his commitments at store and fire dept, he also worked as a foreman on many road construction projects throughout the Rochester area.

In retirement Mel split time between Victor NY and Zephyrhills Florida.  He also became involved in the Victor Senior Citizens, serving as president for a time. In his spare time he was fond of taking long walks in Gypsum Mills Park, playing cards, cheering on the Buffalo Bills and the Syracuse Orange, and spending time with his family and friends.

Melvin is predeceased by wife, Beverly, his daughter, Patricia, sister, Carmen, and many loved family and friends. He is survived by his daughter, Carol, son-in-law, Steve, grandson, Kyle, granddaughter, Megan and many nieces and nephews. Calling hours will be held Thursday August 24th 4 – 7 p.m. at Jarmusz Cotton Funeral Home (26 Maple Ave. Victor, NY). Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Farmington Volunteer Fire Association, PO Box 25117, Farmington NY 14425.