Melvin Beitscher
Melvin Beitscher, a United Airlines pilot, entrepreneur and former Denverite, passed away Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2020, in Newport Beach, Calif. Rabbi Elli Spitz officiated at the March 2 service and burial in Newport Beach. Pacific View Mortuary and Memorial Park made the arrangements.
“Melvin lived a long and very full life —pilot, entrepreneur, vicarious reader, outstanding athlete, navigator, adventurer and volunteer,” his family said.
“He was a lifelong learner, always curious and interested in expanding his world through travel, education and religion . . .”
Mr. Beitscher was born Jan. 23, 1923, in Manhattan, NY.
He attended Brooklyn Tech High School and earned an Associate in Arts degree from Orange Coastline College post-retirement, in 1985.
Mr. Beitscher, a pilot and trainer stationed at Lowry AFB in WW II, was in the US Air Force Reserves for 30 years. He retired as a Lt. Colonel in 1972.
He married Carol Siegel on May 13, 1971. The couple raised their family in Denver.
A pilot for the United Airlines hub in Denver, he later became owner and president of the Denver-based Star for Parts, the largest vacuum wholesale company in North America.
The couple retired to Newport Beach in 1980.
Mr. Beitscher, who was passionate about flying, traveled the world with his wife Carol.
“Some of his most joyful moments were skiing, swimming and visiting his grandchildren,” the family said.
“He embraced change, like when he became one of the first people to own a Mac computer and taught his children how to use it.
“Melvin embraced life to the fullest, and he will be missed.”
Melvin Beitscher is survived by his wife of 49 years Carol Beitscher of Newport Beach; children William Beitscher, Carolyn Baughman, Stephanie Gibbons, Sheri (Michael) Jacobs and Felicia Siegel; grandchildren Tiffany, Lyndsey, Jordan, Hannah, Cooper, Heather and Julia; and great-granddaughter Sawyer.
He was predeceased by his son Jeffrey Siegel in 2008.
Contributions may be made to the charity of choice.
Copyright © 2020 by the Intermountain Jewish News
Oh I am so sorry to hear this!!! Melvin was such a Sweet man, and one of my Favorite customers!! I met Melvin and Carol on one of their many excursions when I worked for Continental Airlines. Heaven definitely got another Angel. He will be missed by many!
R.I.P. my Sweet Melvin <3