Melvin Dudley Bailey, 80, of Coeur d'Alene, passed away at his home Saturday morning, May 28, 2011.

He was born to the late Richard and Vernie Bailey, Aug. 29, 1930, in Brownwood, Texas. During his high school years he competed in the 1949 Olympic trials for rowing. He served in the USAF from 1950-1953. He married Patricia Ann Larsen Sept. 12, 1957, and they lived together in California before retiring to Vancouver, Wash., in 2000, and ultimately moving to Coeur d'Alene in 2008.

Mel worked the majority of his adult life for Caltrans, from 1961-1993 in Eureka, Marysville and Sacramento, Calif. He enjoyed time with family, golf, billiards, photography and art, particularly drawing caricatures. His favorite place to be was always home.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Patricia; brother and sister in-law, Richard and LaWanda Bailey of Euless, Texas; three children and their spouses: John and Eun-Kyung Bailey of Plano, Texas, Diane and Tom DuBos of Coeur d'Alene, Craig and Colleen Bailey of Foresthill, Calif.; five grandchildren: Sarah DuBos, Megan DuBos, Justin Martinez, Savannah Martinez and Joseph Bailey; and one great-grandchild, Augie Martinez. Also, brother in-law Ray Hickman of Page, Ariz.; daughter in-law Judy Bailey of Wilcox, Ariz.; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents; sister Patricia Hickman and sister in-law Hope Bailey.

At Mel's request, no service will be held. A remembrance is scheduled from 1-3 p.m. Saturday, June 18, 2011, at the home of Tom and Diane DuBos. Please call (360) 518-4272 for details.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Hospice of North Idaho (www.honi.org), the Salvation Army (www.salvationarmy.org), Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church (13541 Highway 53, Rathdrum, ID 83858) or the charity of your choice.

The family of Mel Bailey wishes to thank the following for their love and support: the staff at Hospice of North Idaho, especially Will and Patty; Dave Neptune and Caliber; Dr. Wolfgang Spyra; Dr. Cooper Wester; Pastor Neil Bloom; Pastor Walt Reese and our extended families at Shepherd of the Hills and Christ the King.