Melvin Niggle

Melvin E.L. Niggle, 96, of Lorain, died Friday, February 18, 2005 in Anchor Lodge Retirement Village, Lorain. He was born April 17, 1908 in Cleveland. He was a self employed fruit farmer. He was a member of Brownhlem United Church of Christ, the Farm Bureau and the Grape Growers Association. He was proud of his many ribbons and awards for fruit displays at the Lorain County Fair. He was director and president of the Avon Ohio Fruit Growers Association and the Northern Ohio Fruit Growers Association. He created and built a fruit grader in the late 20's and 30's sizing thousands of bushels of peaches and apples. He was a member of the Brownhlem and Firelands School Boards. He enjoyed square dancing and was an ombudsman for nursing homes. Survivors include 4 daughters, Martha MacLachlan, Massillon, Virginia Downhower, Tipton, IN, Gail Drong, Davison, MI and Mary Roberts, Saline, MI; 7 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild. Preceding him in death were his parents, Frank A. and Hattie E. (nee Cain) Niggle; his wife, Christine Niggle, 2000; and brothers, Ralph, Charles, and Lloyd. Friends may call Monday from 5-8 p.m. at the Riddle Funeral Home, 5345 South Street, Vermilion. Funeral services will be held Tuesday at 11 a.m. at the Brownhelm Congregational United Church of Christ, 2144 North Ridge Road, Vermilion. The Reverend Elizabeth Terrell, pastor, will officiate. Interment will follow in Brownhelm Cemetery, Vermilion. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Brownhelm Congregation United Church of Christ, 2144 North Ridge Road, Vermilion, 44089. Online condolences may be made to www.riddlefuneralhome.com.