Melvin Schiel

Melvin William Schiel passed away on Tuesday, August 29, 2023 in Slidell, LA. Native of New Orleans, age 87 years. Beloved husband for over 67 years of Gail T. Schiel. Loving father of Sharon Bouche and her husband Joseph, and Jill Richardson and her husband Joseph. Devoted “Gramps” of Joseph A. Bouche’ III and his wife Brittany, Cheri Bouche’ Reilly, Andrew W. Richardson and his wife, Valerie, and Megan Richardson Schwing and her husband, Harris. Devoted great grandfather of Evan Bouche’, Emily Bouche’, Elise Bouche’, Madison Reilly, Aubrey Reilly, Carter Richardson, Lincoln Richardson, and Gavin “Hank” Schwing. Melvin is preceded in death by his parents, the late William “Dutch” and Julia “Doddie” Melerine Schiel, as well as his loving great grandson, Ethan J. Bouche’. Mel grew up in Delacroix Island, St Bernard Parish, and moved to the 9th Ward in New Orleans. He met his forever love, best friend and soulmate, Gail, at a Mardi Gras Ball Dance during their high school years.  They immediately started to date and fell in love; he even switched schools from Holy Cross to Nichols High School to be with his love.  They moved to Chalmette in St. Bernard Parish, where they made their home for most of their years and raised their two daughters, Sharon and Jill.  They built a house in Buccaneer Villa North where they made many forever friendships hanging out at the neighborhood swim club. There and most everywhere, Mel was always the life of the party, quite the dresser, always had perfect hair, and was a joy to be around. Mel was a proud New Orleans Firefighter, serving his last post at NOFD Fire Station Engine 36 on Read Road in New Orleans East. Besides his regular duties, he was also the fire truck driver and cook.  It was there he earned the name and CB Handle of “Honest Mel”, because of his always playing silly jokes on everyone. Mel also enjoyed fishing, camping, and dancing with Gail. Later in life, you could find the both of them at the casino, which was their weekend home. Mel will be deeply missed by all. The family would like to especially acknowledge the staff of SummerHouse Park Provence of Slidell, LA for their devotion and care of Mel & Gail these last 3 years. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Prayer Service to be held at Serenity Funeral Home, 20419 Hwy 36, Covington, LA, on Thursday, September 7, 2023 at 1:00 PM with Gathering beginning at 11:00 AM. Private Inurnment to be held at St. Bernard Memorial Gardens, Chalmette, LA, at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to Serenity Funeral Home of Covington, LA. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests Masses to be said in Melvin’s honor.

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