In loving memory of

Paul E. Melby
August 2, 1975 - May 14, 2011

Paul E. Melby, 35, of Byron, MN, died Saturday, May 14, 2011 at St. Cloud Hospital in St. Cloud, Minnesota.

Paul Emmitt Melby was born August 2, 1975 in Red Lake Falls, Minnesota to Robert and Phyllis (Morinville) Melby. He was raised in Oklee, Minnesota and graduated as Valedictorian in 1994 at Oklee High School. Paul attended North Dakota State University and graduated with honors in electrical engineering in 1999. He married Shelly Huot on June 12, 1999 in Red Lake Falls, Minnesota. He started his career at IBM in 1999 as an electrical engineer. He was a member of Christ the King Catholic Church in Byron. Paul enjoyed volleyball, football, basketball, golf, and he was a member of Team R.E.D. running group in Byron. He enjoyed the outdoors, hunting and camping. He had a love for life, and especially loved spending time with his family.

He is survived by his wife, Shelly of Byron; his three children, Anna, Madison, and Carson; his parents, Robert and Phyllis Melby of Oklee, MN; a sister, Rachel (David) Fox of Owatonna, MN; ten nieces; and eight nephews. He was preceded in death by his grandparents; and a brother, Ryan.

A Funeral Mass will be held Friday, May 20, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. at Christ the King Catholic Church, 202 - 4th St NW, Byron, MN with Father Paul Surprenant officiating. A visitation will be held Thursday, May 19, 2011 from 5:00 8:00 p.m. at the church with a prayer service at 7:00 p.m. Visitation will continue Friday from 10:00 a.m. till the time of the service at the church. A prayer service will be held Monday, May 23, 2011 at 6:00 p.m. at Saint Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Oklee, MN followed by the burial in Saint Francis Xavier Cemetery.

Online condolences can be made at www.ranfranzandvinefh.com

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes, 5421 Royal Place NW, Rochester, MN 55901 (507) 289-3600

Tributes

Sean Walsh wrote on Jun 12, 2011:

"Shelly and family, I just recently found out about your loss and my heart sank for you and your children.  I know you have a wonderful family to help you through this difficult time and if you need anything please let me know.  I always thought of you  as a friend.  My prayers are with you. Sean"

Larry LaCoursire wrote on May 29, 2011:

"What comes to mind regarding your situation is ---- Allow your friends and relatives to be close and comfort you. Although Paul and I are merely third cousins, I feel a closeness, because I am an electrical engineering graduate of UND/Grand Forks. Paul may have had one of my fellow students as a proffessor........ Bill Bares. I recall his being EE department head at Fargo. One more connection.......... almost; 15 years before Paul started working at IBM, they tested some of their products in our electromagnetic lab. I was an Oklee-ite graduating in 1950! Larry LaCoursire"

Kirk Dietzman wrote on May 25, 2011:

"To Shelly and the Melby Family, I worked with Paul here at IBM.  I appreciated his ''can do'' and upbeat attitude.  Always very positive and focused on the solution.  He worked very hard to make his projects successful.    Very sorry for your loss.  My prayers are with you all."

rhonda nelson wrote on May 23, 2011:

"Shelly, I just heard about Paul''s passing and wanted to send my condolences to you and your entire family. You & the kids will be in my thoughts and prayers as the days pass by. May God comfort & bless you... knowing a very special angel is watching over you all.  Rhonda.James.Kendall"

Leah Pigatti wrote on May 22, 2011:

"Dear Melby Family, My deepest sympathy to you on the loss of Paul.  Father Duane offered prayers for him and your family at Mass last night.  Paul will always be with you in spirit. When Bob spoke of Paul and running together, he lite up with love and pride.  Always hold those special memories close in your heart.  My prayers are with you that your faith in God will carry you through the difficult times ahead.  May God bless you.  Leah"

Andrea Schroetke wrote on May 21, 2011:

"Shelly & family - my deepest sympathies to you all.  Know that he is watching over each of you and loved you all very much.  Paul will certainly be missed and the world will be a little less fun without him around.  I will always think of his smile, his quick wit and that laugh!   Keeping you in my thoughts & prayers~ Drew"

Sonny Ranz wrote on May 20, 2011:

"My deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family. Paul was such a great guy and friend. My thoughts and prayers will be with your family always. Sonny"

Lee Anderson wrote on May 19, 2011:

"Shelly, I don't have words to express how I feel. Please know that you and your children are in my prayers. Always remember, he may be gone, but if you watch and listen carefully his presence will be found. Like in your childrens smile, or just a nice a day. Hold on to the good! God Bless You."

Nathan Lagred wrote on May 19, 2011:

"Paul, may you rest in peace, may all of your aspirations and dreams be forever attained in the Kingdom of the Lord. May you forever watch over your loving wife and children to protect them and keep them from harms way. May you be forever remembered through the greatness that you gave to all those around you. May you bestow on others the happiness and joyfulness that surrounded you and your crooked smile. You will not be forgotten my friend!"

Ann Hjellming wrote on May 19, 2011:

"For seven years, my life has been Blessed more then I ever imagined. You shared the most important part of your life with Conner, Chad and I. I have always said that Anna, Madison and Carson Shine of Paul and Shelly. Words cannot express the loss I feel every morning. With Deepest Sympathy and Saddness. I love you all!"

Mike Clark wrote on May 19, 2011:

"Shelly, May you find peace and hope in the friends and family that are here to help you. Meredith and I will be praying for you and your family as you transition thru this dificult time. Meredith and I are college friends of Jason and Anita's. Michael and Meredith Clark"

Jessica Lutzi wrote on May 19, 2011:

"Our deepest sympathies to your entire family, our thoughts and prayers are with you. If you ever need anything we are here to help. The Lutzi Family John, Jess, Atley, Rees"

Mark & Katie (O'Neill) Lorenson wrote on May 18, 2011:

"To the entire Melby family we are sending you our sincerest sympathies for the loss of your loved one. You have experienced such unbelievable tragedies. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Mark & Katie Lorenson"

LaRee Etter wrote on May 18, 2011:

"A nicer guy could not be found, Paul. You will be missed."

Holly Jantzen wrote on May 18, 2011:

"Shelly, I am so very sorry. I can't imagine the pain you must feel. Please remember that Paul loved you VERY much and you have the wonderful opportunity to carry on his legacy. I was so blessed a few years back to have God allow our paths to cross and continue that friendship. I have soaked up so many wonderful things by knowing Paul! Kids- Your dad was a fantastic guy! Remember him always and help each other through the tough times..dad is watching you from heaven. Team RED- please run for Paul, it was such a passion of his, but also run for Shelly and the kids-they are his living legacy. The rest of the Melby family- you all did a wonderful job to raise such a wonderful man! Anyone that had ever had the opportunity to meet Paul was a better person because of it. God bless you all during this difficult time and remember you have a wonderful net around you, many people would do anything to help you get through this. Forever and Always, love the Jantzen's Holly, Chet and the girls"

Heather Paulson (Recover Health) wrote on May 18, 2011:

"Shelly we at Recover Health learned of the unfortunate and untimely death of your husband Paul. There are no words to describe the utter grief that we are feeling right now, and we cannot possibly imagine the shock and sorrow that has been thrust on your family as well. May God guide and support you in this difficult time. We at Recover Health will keep you and your family in our thoughts and prayers."

Shannon Krohn wrote on May 18, 2011:

"Rachel..words cannot express how much I was saddened to hear about your brother..please know your Washington family is thinking of you and your family and hope that you can find comfort in the days ahead.."

Lisa Whyte Maurstad wrote on May 18, 2011:

"I would like to offer the Melby family my deepest sympathies. I knew him through my undergrad years in Oklee. He did have an infectious smile. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this very difficult time. Stay strong in your faith and He will see you through."

Christy Roemmich wrote on May 18, 2011:

"Melby Family; My heart and prayers are with you. I have many found memories of Ryan, Paul and Rachael growing up as kids. I will miss the opportunity of knowing the boys as adults. Shelly; I am deeply sadden for your loss. You have the most wonderful, kind and generous in-laws. I hope the support of them, your family and friends will help you through many difficult times. God Bless. Christy Roemmich and Family."

Yvonne Hubmayr wrote on May 18, 2011:

"I did not know Paul but I am a member of the running community. We are all stunned by such a fit and vivacious person being taken from us. I would like to express my sincere sympathy to Paul's family. I am so very sorry for your loss. Such a tragedy, especially for his wife and young children. I would attend Paul's service to pay my respects but am, unfortunately, out of town. Sincerely Yvonne Hubmayr"

Linda Calderon wrote on May 18, 2011:

"To Paul's family - especially my dear friend Shelly... I am shocked and deeply saddened by this great loss. Paul was truly one of a kind. I always enjoyed his competitive spirit on the volleball court and he always had a smile on his face. He will be missed."

Nate Patnode wrote on May 18, 2011:

"Dear Melby family, I can not say how sorry I am for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you."

Dan & Keli (Rustan) Cox wrote on May 18, 2011:

"Our deepest sympathies. God Bless."

Tom Hintz wrote on May 18, 2011:

"I was very sorry to hear about Paul. He was a great guy to work with. Paul was always quick with a smile, very talented and liked by all. He cared deeply about his family. This a terrible tragedy and my thoughts and prayers go out to his family. Paul will missed greatly by his many,many friends."

Connie Mathison wrote on May 18, 2011:

"I wanted to say how sorry I am for your loss. Paul was one of the most pleasant people I have ever worked with and will be missed by all.. God be with you and your family!"

mary ann kachelski wrote on May 18, 2011:

"My prayers and sympathy for your family Shelly. I am so sorry for your loss, may God be with you and your family at this time."

Lisa Howard wrote on May 18, 2011:

"Shelly and Melby Family, I have worked with Paul on Card Build and custom cables. He was a pleasure to work with and always Thankful for any ideas or suggestions. I had a couple of Chats with Paul about Running and His Family. He Loved all of you dearly and was very Proud of you. Running was one of His greatest pleasures and He loved to run Marathons with His Dad. He told Me that His Dad would beat Him. That never stopped Paul from enjoying the Moment, it just ment more to Him! That's what made him special. With Sympathy Lisa Howard"

Sylvia Majeres wrote on May 17, 2011:

"To Paul's wife, children,parents,sister and all family and friends- We pray for you all. This is the most tragic thing...I pray and know that God, Jesus and all of his angels are there to carry you through this horrible time of sorrow and pain. You have a very strong family unit and keep your faith in God; he will carry you and that you are not alone. My deepest sympathy, Sylvia (Lallier) Majeres"

Heather (Holland) and Sean Neubauer wrote on May 17, 2011:

"Melbys, We are so sorry and crushed to hear about Paul. He brought joy to my family and we have so many amazing memories of times we spent with Paul. Our prayers are with you and may his love for life and his strength bring you comfort."

Tracey Gohmann wrote on May 17, 2011:

"To Shelly, Anna, Madison, Carson, and all of your family, my deepest sympathies to you at this incredibly difficult time. When I moved in next door to you, I couldn't have asked for a better neighbor than Paul! Looking out at what is now a dandelion filled yard over there, I fondly remember how quickly Paul would be to get out to spray any weed that dared to pop up in his yard! He was such a fantastic guy who will be missed by so many!"

Chris Runnwild O'Brien wrote on May 17, 2011:

"Paul's Family, I am so sorry for your loss. His miles of smiles will greatly be missed."

Sara Blake wrote on May 17, 2011:

"Shelly and family, my thoughts and prayers are with you all. The world is a much darker place without Paul's grin to brighten it."

Kate (Larson) Frederick wrote on May 17, 2011:

"I was so fortunate to have known Paul in high school and college. I looked forward to all the sporting events were our paths would cross and we could enjoy a laugh and each others company. Paul was an amazing person and in my life I've never met anyone quite like him. To the Melby family, I am so sorry for your loss and you will remain in my thoughts and prayers."

Casey Holland wrote on May 17, 2011:

"Melby's- Our family is deeply saddened by the loss of Paul. His smile was always so warm and infectious. Paul was a big part of our family and we have so many great memories to reflect on due to him. All of you are in our thoughts and prayers. Casey, Heather, Tom, and Rita"

Shelly (Hammer) Burkel wrote on May 17, 2011:

"O Lord, whose ways are beyond understanding, listen to the prayers of your faithful people: that those weighed down by grief at the loss of Paul may find reassurance in your infinite goodness. We ask this through Christ Our Lord. Dear Melby Family, you are in my thoughts and prayers."

Nicole wrote on May 17, 2011:

"Shelly, Anna, Madison, Carson, and family -- We are so deeply saddened to hear of Paul's passing. Please know we are always available to help in any way that we can. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family during this extremely difficult time. Justin, Nicole, Ashton, McKenna, and Brooklyn Thompson"

Nicky Ubert (Olson) wrote on May 17, 2011:

"To the Melby family- I am so very sorry for the pain you are all experiencing right now. I pray that in time you will feel the many prayers and words of encouragment being offered by all who wish to help support during this difficult time."

Lisa Stasik Rovang wrote on May 17, 2011:

"Shelly: My heart goes out to you. Thinking of you and your family. I wish you comfort, peace and strength."

Karen Lindquist Wenner wrote on May 17, 2011:

"My heart aches for your unimaginable loss. There is nothing I can say to make the pain go away, but please know that I hold each of you close to my heart. I knew Paul more as a child then as an adult, but even as a child I could see what a wonderful person he would turn out to be. Please know each and every one of you are in my thoughts and prayers. Love, Karen Lindquist Wenner"

Joel Ostrum wrote on May 17, 2011:

"I'm so sorry for your loss. Paul was a great guy. I truly enjoyed working with him. He was always so up beat. He is going to greatly missed by everybody. Joel"

Jean Murray wrote on May 17, 2011:

"My heart breaks for Paul's family and for our running community. His enthusiasm, great humor, sincerity, volunteerism and the devotion to his family are just a few of the qualities that will be missed. He was a son, husband and friend to be proud of."

Lora Isackson wrote on May 17, 2011:

"Dear Rachel & family~ Please know that your Washington School family is praying for all of you during this most tragic loss. I've been thinking of you so much since I found out and my heart aches for you, Rachel. May you find hope & strength from your faith in God in the next days, weeks, and months. Take comfort in knowing you will see your brother again in heaven. ~Lora Isackson"

Jodi Bachand wrote on May 17, 2011:

"Shelly, Anna, Madison, Carsen, Phyllis, Bob, Rachel, Dave and girls- There are no words to express how sorry we are for your loss. Paul meant so much to Jeff. You all mean so much to us. We are greatful for the memories we have. May your memories carry you through this beyond difficult time. If there is ANYTHING we can do for any of you please do not hesitate to ask. We are here for all of you. Jeff, Jodi, Cade, Kia and Cari"

Jeanine Metzdorff (Hammer) wrote on May 17, 2011:

"Dear Melby Family, It is hard to comprehend the vulnerability of life. How someone so young, healthy and full of life can have his life so suddenly taken from him. It In goes beyond explanation. I know the loss of Paul causes such great suffering to all who knew him, especially his family who dearly loved him. In the face of such suffering all we can do is bear witness, so no one need suffer alone. Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. I pray also for the nurses, doctors and paramedics who cared for him."

Jocelyn Hoselton wrote on May 17, 2011:

"My dear friend Shelly and family, I hold you near and dear to my heart. May God bless and strengthen you and your family during this very sad and difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you."

Keith & Wendy Morinville wrote on May 17, 2011:

"Shelly and family, Bob, Phyllis and Rachel, there are no words to express the sadness that's in our hearts. Please know that we are praying that you receive the strength you need in this terribly sad time."

Carmen and Zach Fore wrote on May 17, 2011:

"Our thoughts, prayers, and deepest sympathies are with you. We will remember Paul as such a positive person with a quick, friendly smile."

suzan gagner wrote on May 17, 2011:

"There are no words to express our deepest sympathy in this tragic loss of Paul to your family. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. Brian & Suzan"

Shaun Bruggeman wrote on May 17, 2011:

"I was very sad to hear about Paul. I hadn't talked to him in a long time but my high school basketball memories seem like just yesterday. My families thoughts and prayers are with you. Shaun, Penny, Haley, Ceely and Sutton"

Danielle Paradis wrote on May 17, 2011:

"Such a unbelievable tragedy. Our deepest sympathy. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Dani & Bill Paradis"

Fr. Tim Bushy wrote on May 17, 2011:

"Shelly and Family, My thoughts and prayers are with you all in the death of Paul. May he have eternal peace and joy and may God give you consolation and comfort and hope and peace too. Fr. Tim Bushy"

Sandy M. wrote on May 17, 2011:

"Dear Shelly and family, I am at a loss for words,sadly there are none ! If there were any magic words I would know them ( I lost my 23 son in Nov.to a hit and run drunk driver) and would share them with you. There is nothing in life that prepares us for the senseless tragic loss of a young vibrant promising life taken away so abrupt and unexpectedly. I am so very sorry for your loss. I met Paul through IBM as I ordered parts for his dept's projects. The few times times I chatted with Paul he seemed to me to always have a smile on his face and was very outgoing and friendly. While shock and numbness will cause the next few days to be a blur,please take time for you, to lean on those with shoulders, hugs,ears and help available to you and for you !! With heartfelt sympathy and understanding, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. God bless you -Sandy M."

Greg Ohlsen wrote on May 17, 2011:

"My heartfelt sympathy to you and your family in this tragic loss. I was just another runner at the marathon Saturday. I can't even begin to imagine how sad you must be. He will be in my prayers."

Richard & Mary Ann Lambert wrote on May 16, 2011:

"to Paul's family, I think of your unbelievable heartache at the loss of your husband,son father,brother, nephew, cousin, uncle, friend etc. and I have no words to adequately express our deepest sympathy. We pray for all of you and know that God will hold you in his arms through this terrible time. Mary Ann & Richard Lambert"

Keith Nelson wrote on May 16, 2011:

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Melby family at this difficult time."

Allie (Bjerklie) Enge wrote on May 16, 2011:

"There are no words that I or anyone else could say to make anything seem even a little bit brighter. I simply don't understand God's plan at times like these. Please know that there are many people that are surrounding you all with prayer. God's Blessings, Allie Enge"

Mike Fedor wrote on May 16, 2011:

"I'm so sorry to hear about Paul's passing.. I worked with Paul at IBM..and had nothing but the best opinion of him and will miss him a lot. Paul was special, he was honest in all that he did and you could tell.. even if you didn't work with him a lot... he was special talented guy. I've respected his work and respected him as a person. I can't under state how much he's already missed. My prayers are with Paul and his family... I'm so sorry he's gone.."

Julie Watstson wrote on May 16, 2011:

"Shelly, Anna, Maddie, and Carson, There are no words to express how very sad we are for your loss. Paul was a such an infectous personality. We will miss his big smile and his energy. We are here to support you and your family. Please call on if we can help in any way. You are in our thoughts and prayers."

Wendy Rasp wrote on May 16, 2011:

"My heart goes out to all of Paul's family. Rachel, I am so sorry for your loss. I am confident that God will sustain you in this difficult time. My deepest sympathy to all of you."

Bill Deming wrote on May 16, 2011:

"My very deepest condolences go out to all in Paul's family. This was a terrible shock for me to learn of this. He will be sorely missed by all of us who have worked with him over the past years. I considered Paul a good friend and one of the truly good guys to work with."

Sherrie Delhanty wrote on May 16, 2011:

"Rachel and family: Please know that I am thinking of you and your family. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Love, Dave and Sherrie Delhanty"

Denette Larson wrote on May 16, 2011:

"Shelly and family, Words can not express how deeply sorry we are to hear about your tragic loss. We will continue to pray for your family and also the Melby and Huot families. May God's abundance love give you and your families strength during this most difficult journey in your lives. You are in our thoughts and in our prayers"

Casey Graham wrote on May 16, 2011:

"My deepest sympathies to all of Paul's family. I met Paul through running in 2009. After a run with Paul my face would hurt from all the laughter. He was truly a joy to be around."

Kristin Zhao wrote on May 16, 2011:

"Dear Melby family, I had the good fortune to run with Paul over the past year as part of the Rochester track club. His spirit, enthusiasm, and beaming smile carried us many a mile. My heart and prayers go out to you in this difficult time. We will miss him, but carry him with us on every step going forward. Sincerely, Kristin Zhao"

The Farmer family wrote on May 16, 2011:

"Shelly, Anna, Maddie and Carson - We are so sorry for your loss. Paul was definitely one of those people that lights up any room! You are in our thoughts and prayers. If there is anything you need don't hesitate to ask."

Kelly Moen wrote on May 16, 2011:

"Very sorry for your loss, you are in my prayers."

Tracy Hamm wrote on May 16, 2011:

"To Pauls family, Our hearts just break for you all. You are in our thoughts through this difficult time. take care.... Ron,Tracy and McKenzie Hamm"

Teresa Melcher wrote on May 16, 2011:

"Dear Rachel and family, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of Paul. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. May the strenght of God lead you through this tragic time. Hugs are sent your way. Mike and Teresa Melcher"

Catherine Cyr wrote on May 16, 2011:

"My deepest sympathy to you all. No words seem appropriate. I love you guys."

Dennis P. DeMers wrote on May 16, 2011:

"On behalf of the Board of Directors and staff of Tri-Valley, I wish to express our deep deep sorrow on the loss of Paul to his wife, children, parents, friends and associates. May eternal rest be granted on to him O Lord and may the pain of his loss be comforted in the the knowledge that he was a gift to all those who knew him. May God Forever Bless Paul Emmitt Melby. Denny DeMers"

Wendy Camerer wrote on May 16, 2011:

"All of my sympathy and prayers go out to you and your family, Rachel. Just wanted to let you know my thoughts are with you."

Kristi Vesterby wrote on May 16, 2011:

"Shelly and family, our deepest sympathy. Paul was such a wonderful person and I have been hearing his voice and laugh in my head since I heard the news. It was such a privilege knowing him. I know there are no words to help console your pain but if there is ANYTHING we can do to help with ANYTHING, please let us know. May God grant you the peace and strength to carry you through..."

Greg and Christy Johanneck wrote on May 16, 2011:

"Shelly and family, we are deeply sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Greg and Christy Johanneck and family"

Megan Kragness wrote on May 16, 2011:

"Shelly, Anna, Madison, Carson, and the rest of the family, I am so sorry to hear about Paul. I will continue to keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers."

Karen Eichman wrote on May 16, 2011:

"Rachel and family, we here at Washington School share in your sadness. We are thinking of you and hold you in our hearts. May you find comfort in Paul's life and acceptance when the time is right."

Andrea wrote on May 16, 2011:

"Rachel, David, and family- My heart aches for you."

Tammy Gross wrote on May 16, 2011:

"Shelly- Your family is my thoughts and prayers. You have given so much support and strength to others, please let others do the same for you to help you thru this difficult time."

Angel Bergeson wrote on May 16, 2011:

"To Paul's Family...I'm so so sorry for your loss. I can't even begin to imagine the heart ache you're feeling. Paul was an important part of my life growing up...he was truly a good hearted person. He will be missed by so many! I'm thankful for the memories I have!"

Darrin Hofstad wrote on May 16, 2011:

"My childhood friend, and my lifelong friend. I always admired you and the man/father you've become. My deepest condolences to the Melby family. Words cannot express the thoughts and prayers extended to you. Paul Emmitt will forever be an inspiration in my life and will be greatly missed."

Pam Hammero wrote on May 16, 2011:

"Shelly, May you experience God's abundant grace at this time and in the future. This is incredibly heartbreaking, but you are not alone. You are loved and in my prayers."

John and Jo Ann Lerohl wrote on May 16, 2011:

"There are no words to express our deepest sympathy in this most unexpected and tragic loss of Paul to your family. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. John and Jo"

Mary Lynn and David wrote on May 16, 2011:

"Surrounding all of you with love and prayers. Mary Lynn and David"

Karlene Greene wrote on May 16, 2011:

"Shelly, Ann, Madison, Carson, Bob, Phyllis, Rachel, David and family. My heart felt condolences go out to all of you during this very difficult time. Thoughts and prayers of all of you! Karlene(Jolly)Greene and Family"

Ron Stock wrote on May 16, 2011:

"I am very sorry for your unimaginable loss. I was assisting at a waterstop with 3 miles to go when I saw Paul run past. I recognized him from the blogs. I told my wife, There goes one of the guys from Rochester" and I told her about his very fun spirit. The running community has lost an amazing man.""

Amy Koenigs wrote on May 16, 2011:

"My thoughts and prayers are with Shelly and the kids. Paul lived life to the fullest and will be greatly missed. Many fun memories. To Bob, Phyllis, Rachel and family prayers for strength again in this loss."

Laurie Laudon wrote on May 16, 2011:

"We are so sorry for your loss. We are keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers. Laurie Laudon-Parent of William in Madison's Class"

Renee Bergeron wrote on May 16, 2011:

"My deepest sympathy to the whole Melby family on the heartbreaking loss of your wonderful son, brother, husband, father, Paul."

Melissa (Bachand) Perala wrote on May 16, 2011:

"To Paul's family and all of the Melby family. I am so deeply sorry for your unexpected loss. My heart breaks for all of you. I will keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers."

Char Brekken wrote on May 16, 2011:

"Melby Family, Your loss is unbelievably heartbreaking. You have my deepest sympathy. My heart goes out to all of you."

Susan Crowell wrote on May 16, 2011:

"I knew Paul from Park & Rec volleyball. He was always friendly and gregarious. I will miss his presence across the net. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers."

Kim wrote on May 16, 2011:

"The Family of Paul, Words just do not express how deeply sorry we are for your loss. May God's love surround you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Kim, Scott, Zach and Brady Grove"

Lea wrote on May 16, 2011:

"I am saddened by your unexpected and tragic loss. Know that the thoughts snd prayers of many of us from running community are with you."

Patty Ward wrote on May 15, 2011:

"Shelly, My heart is breaking for you and your family. Please know that I am keeing you, Anna, Madison, and Carson in my prayers every day as you go through this struggle and pain. I pray that the Angels protect you and guide you through the tough times. Know that I am here for you when you need it. Love, Patty"

Shawn Mintey wrote on May 15, 2011:

"Shelly and family~ I am so very very sorry. My thoughts and prayers are with you, Anna, Maddie and Carson as well as the rest of your family. Please know I am here with love and support and will assist with anything you may need. ~Shawn Mintey"

Bryan Champagne wrote on May 15, 2011:

"Melby Family, you all have my deepest sympathy!"

Ann Hjellming wrote on Jan 11, 2011:

"For seven years, my life has been Blessed more then I ever imagined. You shared the most important part of your life with Conner, Chad and I. I have always said that Anna, Madison and Carson Shine of Paul and Shelly. Words cannot express the loss I feel every morning. With Deepest Sympathy and Saddness. I love you all!"

Mike Clark wrote on Jan 11, 2011:

"Shelly, May you find peace and hope in the friends and family that are here to help you. Meredith and I will be praying for you and your family as you transition thru this dificult time. Meredith and I are college friends of Jason and Anita''s. Michael and Meredith Clark"

Jessica Lutzi wrote on Jan 11, 2011:

"Our deepest sympathies to your entire family, our thoughts and prayers are with you. If you ever need anything we are here to help. The Lutzi Family John, Jess, Atley, Rees"

Mark & Katie (O''Neill) Lorenson wrote on Jan 11, 2011:

"To the entire Melby family we are sending you our sincerest sympathies for the loss of your loved one. You have experienced such unbelievable tragedies. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Mark & Katie Lorenson"

LaRee Etter wrote on Jan 11, 2011:

"A nicer guy could not be found, Paul. You will be missed."

Holly Jantzen wrote on Jan 11, 2011:

"Shelly, I am so very sorry. I can''t imagine the pain you must feel. Please remember that Paul loved you VERY much and you have the wonderful opportunity to carry on his legacy. I was so blessed a few years back to have God allow our paths to cross and continue that friendship. I have soaked up so many wonderful things by knowing Paul! Kids- Your dad was a fantastic guy! Remember him always and help each other through the tough times..dad is watching you from heaven. Team RED- please run for Paul, it was such a passion of his, but also run for Shelly and the kids-they are his living legacy. The rest of the Melby family- you all did a wonderful job to raise such a wonderful man! Anyone that had ever had the opportunity to meet Paul was a better person because of it. God bless you all during this difficult time and remember you have a wonderful net around you, many people would do anything to help you get through this. Forever and Always, love the Jantzen''s Holly, Chet and the girls"

Heather Paulson (Recover Health) wrote on Jan 11, 2011:

"Shelly we at Recover Health learned of the unfortunate and untimely death of your husband Paul. There are no words to describe the utter grief that we are feeling right now, and we cannot possibly imagine the shock and sorrow that has been thrust on your family as well. May God guide and support you in this difficult time. We at Recover Health will keep you and your family in our thoughts and prayers."

Shannon Krohn wrote on Jan 11, 2011:

"Rachel..words cannot express how much I was saddened to hear about your brother..please know your Washington family is thinking of you and your family and hope that you can find comfort in the days ahead.."

Lisa Whyte Maurstad wrote on Jan 11, 2011:

"I would like to offer the Melby family my deepest sympathies. I knew him through my undergrad years in Oklee. He did have an infectious smile. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this very difficult time. Stay strong in your faith and He will see you through"

Christy Roemmich wrote on Jan 11, 2011:

"Melby Family; My heart and prayers are with you. I have many found memories of Ryan, Paul and Rachael growing up as kids. I will miss the opportunity of knowing the boys as adults. Shelly; I am deeply sadden for your loss. You have the most wonderful, kind and generous in-laws. I hope the support of them, your family and friends will help you through many difficult times. God Bless. Christy Roemmich and Family."