Douglas A. Melanson

Douglas A. Melanson, 81 of Oreland, Pennsylvania passed away on Friday, April 26, 2024, surrounded by family and friends.

Doug was born in Pittsfield, Massachusetts. He and his younger brother, Donald, were raised in Glasgow, Montana and Sundance, Wyoming by their parents Victor and Vera (Wesen) Melanson. In Wyoming, the family operated a sawmill logging camp in the Bear Lodge Mountains.

Enlisting in the Army, Doug was stationed in Germany, during the building of the Berlin Wall from 1959-1962. He remained in the Army Reserve until 1965. Upon discharge from the Army, he worked in a tin factory until being accepted into the Philadelphia Police Academy. He was appointed to the Philadelphia Police Department on March 11, 1963. During his forty plus years, Doug served in various districts around the city, ending his career as the Commanding Officer of the Traffic, Park, and Accident Investigation Divisions, rising to the rank of Inspector.

Family was important to him. Family was not limited to blood. Family was anyone and everyone he cared about. He spent many years caring for his mother and overseeing her ranch in Wyoming.

The happiest times were traveling around Montana, Wyoming, North and South Dakota visiting family. Many summers were spent in Alaska, enjoying the glaciers and a good king crab dinner.

Doug is survived by his wife, Teresa (Terry), son Michael, daughter Patrice, grandchildren Michael (Ellen), Kathryn, and Nicholas. Great-grandchildren Vivian and Samual. Many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his brother Donald and son Thomas.

A viewing will be held at Holy Martyrs Catholic Church, 120 Allison Road, Oreland, on Friday, May 3, from 9:30-10:30. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10:30. Interment will be at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made to Holy Martyrs Catholic Church, 120 Allison Road, Oreland, PA 19075.