Obituaries

It is with profound sadness that the family of Garth David Melle announces his passing on March 29, 2025, at the age of 68. Born on October 19, 1956, in Radville, Saskatchewan, Garth lived a life defined by integrity, kindness, and an unwavering sense of fairness.

Garth grew up in Minton, Saskatchewan, where he developed a strong work ethic, a love for the outdoors, and an interest in mechanics. Even in his early years, he was known for being intelligent, straightforward, and fiercely independent. He had a natural ability to connect with people, a trait that would serve him well throughout his personal and professional life.

In 1990, Garth married the love of his life, Lavonne Melle, and together they built a life filled with adventure, laughter, and countless cherished memories. Their 34 years of marriage were marked by deep companionship, travel, and an ever-growing circle of friends and family.

Garth had many passions, including fishing, biking, building vehicles, music, and enjoying a cold beer— and, as he would freely admit, smoking too. He was a man who valued honesty, intelligence, and fairness, and he carried these traits into every aspect of his life. He never complained, facing every challenge with resilience and a positive attitude.

Garth’s career in the Credit Union system began in the 1980s, where he managed several small-town Credit Unions. In the 1990s, he transitioned to SaskCentral, where he played a pivotal role in financial services challenges. Later, he joined the Credit Union Deposit Guarantee Corporation, where he served in various leadership positions before retiring in 2017 as CEO.

Garth was highly respected not only within Saskatchewan’s Credit Union system but also on a national level. His contributions helped shape financial regulations, and his leadership left a lasting impact on the industry.

Garth will be deeply missed by his loving wife of 34 years, Lavonne Melle, his mother, Joan Melle, and his large, devoted family. He is survived by his siblings, Mark Melle (Debra) and their children; Jess Melle (Renae) and Logan; Kyle Melle; Jill Melle (Bryce Aschenbrenner) and their children Carter and Max; Kevin Melle (Rhonda) and their children Mason Melle and Ethan Melle; Gary Melle (Elaine) and their children Reid Melle (Tina Riechken) and Lee Melle (Madison Butchko); Wayne Melle (Della); Tracy Willford (Greg) and children Karson Bringedahl deceased; Evan Bringedahl (Kari) and their child Maeve; Connor Bringedahl; and Casey Melle (Dallas Mang) and child Naythan Melle.

He is also survived by his brothers-in-law, Colin LePage (Maureen Srochenski) and children Lanna Terry (Steven) and children Braden LePage (Alana); Colin LePage Jr (Lisa) and their children Brooks and Ciara; Dean LePage (Debra Gill) and children Lynsee Fidek (Landen) and their children Cash and Summer; Karissa LePage and child Zander Gorski, and Tyran LePage; Brent LePage (Cindy Watmough) and children Megan Baker and her children Stella, Otto and Lola, Tyler Monette, Shane LePage, and Lilly.

Garth was predeceased by his father, Ralph Melle, and his nephew, Karson Bringedahl.

Beyond his family, Garth leaves behind numerous dear friends, cousins, neighbors and colleagues. He loved all of you. He was particularly fond of his Mexican friends, whom he held close to his heart.

When Garth was diagnosed with advanced aggressive cancer, he faced it with the same attitude he carried through life—a positive attitude. He said he had a great life, great friendships, and a great career. He said he was fortunate to have opportunities many have not had. He was grateful for his health up until these last few months, that he never was hospitalized and never once complained. He remained easy to visit, always keeping a positive outlook and cracking jokes, even in the toughest times.

One of Garth’s final wishes was to see a PET scan machine in the Regina–Moose Jaw area. The only available PET scan in Saskatchewan is in Saskatoon, and Garth, like many others, was too ill to make the trip. In his honor, a fundraising initiative will be launched to help bring this critical cancer-detection technology closer to home. Where to donate will be shared at a later date. Let’s get a PET scan in the Regina-Moose Jaw area. We decline flowers in hopes you donate to this fundraiser. We are choosing to leave the politics out of it and deliver the PET Scan to the public as soon as possible.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank-you to Dr. Johnson for her expertise in pain relief and palliative care, the many nurses and doctors who provided care, Dr. Haidash and David at Eastside Pharmacy in Emerald Park for his prompt service. To all the family and friends who provided support over these last six months—your kindness and generosity meant the world to Garth, and he was deeply grateful.

For those looking into alternative cancer treatments, we encourage researching the work of Dr. William Makis on X formally twitter and exploring emerging options in cancer care. Dr. William Makis, along with many oncologists are successfully using ivermectin, fenbendazole, mebendazole and several other treatments that are worth investigating. Please do your research. Please contact Lavonne for further information.

As per Garth’s wishes, a Private Family Service will be held.

Rest easy, Garth. You were one of a kind, and you will be missed beyond words. I love you!

"Just sit right back and you'll hear a tale…"