Melvin Oing Memorial Fund

New Fund Creates a Legacy for Gibson County

After Melvin Oing passed away, his wife Winnie decided to make donations to some of his favorite charities, including the Gibson County Community Foundation. "When the Foundation was formed 15 years ago, Mel was right there, a founding member of our board of trustees," says Marlene Obert, the board's current president. "He was a dedicated and generous man who worked tirelessly to get the Foundation off the ground, no small task in those early days." 

Winnie and Melvin, a retired business owner and banker, lived in Ft. Branch, where they raised four children. Melvin was an active member of Holy Cross Church, the Youth Baseball League, and other local organizations.

"Mel was first and foremost a devoted husband, father and grandfather," said his wife of 54 years. "But he was also a strong believer in helping out in the community. He wanted to make Gibson County a better place to live."

By establishing the Melvin Oing Memorial Fund late last year, Winnie has honored not only her husband's memory but also his passion for people and for his community. Because the fund is unrestricted, it will serve a wide range of needs in Gibson County, helping to carry out Melvin's legacy now and forever into the future.

"Administering the Melvin Oing Memorial Fund is an honor for us," says Obert, "Every time we award a grant from this fund, we will be reminded of his vision and his devotion, not only for the Foundation he helped establish but for the entire community."