Obituary of Melvin E. Pence Jr.

Melvin E. Pence, Jr., (80) of Scottsdale, AZ passed away on July 20, 2025.

He was born on January 18, 1945 in Iowa to Melvin Sr. and Dora Pence. He graduated from Eldora High School. After serving in the US Army, he attended Iowa State University earning a degree in Veterinary Medicine. Mel was in practice in southwest Iowa and later took a position teaching at the University of Georgia. Upon retirement, he relocated to Scottsdale.

He is survived by daughter Heidi Pence Epsen, Mike Epsen, Noah Long, Colby and Sarah Epsen, Glenda Guthrie, George and Nancy Pence, Cheryl Pence, Levi and Barbara Pence, Alex and Rose Pence and many members of their extended families. Mel also is survived and fondly remembered by many friends around the country.

Mel married his beloved wife, Pamela Gates Pence, who predeceased him in March 2016. He is also predeceased by his parents and brother David Pence.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Newton, Iowa on October 4, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at the Pence ~ Reese Funeral Home Tribute Center 201 E. 4th St. N. Newton, Iowa.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Heifer International, 1 World Avenue, Little Rock, AR 72202 (www.heifer.org) or Home Fur Good, 102202 N. 32nd Street, Phoenix, AZ 85032.