Melvin J. Shinn

Melvin "Mel" J. Shinn, 95, of La Porte, formerly of Hanna, passed away on Saturday, August 11, 2018 at his home with his family by his side.

Mel was born in North Liberty, IN, on January 14, 1923 to Walter and Erma (McKean) Shinn.

On May 10, 1952, he married Evelyn (Benke) Shinn who preceded him in death on November 13, 2005.  Surviving are his son and daughter-in-law, Barry and Terri Shinn of La Porte; grandchildren, Alison (Cody) Zoll of La Porte, Caly (Jeremy) Russell of La Porte, Cara (Michael) Roberts of Buchanan, MI, and Tyler Uebler of Ft. Myers, FL; great-grandchildren, Morgan, JJ, Conner, McKenzie, Kaitlyn, Emma, McKayla, Trey, Toby, Beckett; nieces and nephews, Carey, Sherry, Darlene, Barbara, and Allen; and special friend, Zona.

In addition to his parents and wife, Mel was preceded in death by his sister and 2 brothers.

During World War II, Mel proudly defended his country as he served in the Army and was involved in the invasion of Omaha Beach.  He earned an American Theater Ribbon, European-African-Middle Eastern Ribbon with 2 Bronze Stars, Asiatic-Pacific Theater Ribbon, WWII Victory Medal and others.  Mel also served his community as a police officer for the La Porte County Sheriff's Department for 25 years before retiring.  He was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church in Wanatah.  After his retirement, Mel loved fishing and spending time with his family.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11 am (CT) on Saturday, August 18, 2018 at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center.  Interment will take place privately.

A time of visitation will be held from 4 - 8 pm (CT) on Friday, August 17, 2018 and from 10 am (CT) until the time of the service on Saturday at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the American Cancer Society, 130 Red Coach Drive, Mishawaka, IN  46545 or the La Porte County Sheriff's Department, 809 State Street, #202A, La Porte, IN  46350.

Condolences may be shared with the family online at www.cutlercares.com.