Melva Jane Zaharion

Melva Jane Zaharion, 92, of Battle Creek passed away with her family at her side on September 11, 2022.

Melva was born on August 14, 1930 in Battle Creek, Michigan, to Henry and Helen (Langs) Webster. Melva resided in Battle Creek all her life and graduated from Battle Creek Central High School in 1948. She was employed by Calhoun Federal Savings and Loan from 1948 to 1952 and worked for Pioneer Seed Corn from 1992 to 2002. Her greatest accomplishment and what gave her the most joy was raising her four children.

Melva was united in marriage to Russell A. Zaharion on September 3, 1950 at First Presbyterian Church in Battle Creek. Surviving are Melva's two sons, Thomas (Diane) Zaharion of Marshall, and John (Renee) Zaharion of Burlington; daughter Angela (Michael) Russell of Battle Creek; and daughter-in-law Rebecca Zaharion of Stuart, Florida; 11 grandchildren, Amy, Katie, Melissa, Megan, Kelly, Andrea, Bryan, Nick, Taylor, Sarah, Paige; and 7 great-grandchildren, Zack, Nick, Emma, Connor, Ellie, Evalyn and William. Melva was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Russell A. Zaharion; son, Russell B. Zaharion; sister, Jeanette Gould; and brother, Neil Webster.

Melva was an active member of First Presbyterian Church for over 60 years where she served as a deacon, Sunday school teacher, moderator of the Priscilla Circle as well as serving on many committees throughout the years. Melva was a member of the Alpha Phi Beta Sorority, Eta Chi Chapter 153. She served on the Northside Manor Senior Citizens Board, volunteered at the Charitable Union, Salvation Army, Soup Kitchen and the Franklin Neighborhood Food Closet. Melva was also active in the PTA at her children's schools including Post and Sonoma elementary schools, and Southeastern and Harper Creek Jr. High Schools. She was also a Blue Bird and Cub Scout Leader.

Melva loved attending all of her grandchildren's activities and rarely missed an opportunity to be there cheering them on! Melva enjoyed being active, walking often and attending different aerobics classes. Melva's home was always warm and welcoming with beautiful flowers and fresh vegetables in the summer and decorations for every holiday. Melva cherished her summer home at Wall Lake and looked forward to spending time there every year with loved ones. Melva will be remembered as a woman who loved bringing her family together, enjoyed spending time with friends and dedicated herself to her church and faith.

Melva's family will receive friends 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., Friday, September 16, 2022 at Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care, Battle Creek. Memorial services will be officiated by Pastor Mike Wicks at the First Presbyterian Church, 11:00 a.m., Saturday, September 17, 2022. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First Presbyterian Church,111 Capital Ave. NE Battle Creek, MI 49017. Personal messages for the family and favorite memories of Melva may be placed here at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.