DIXON – Melvin H. “Monk” Haefner, 84, of Dixon, died Wednesday, Feb. 13, 2013, at his daughter’s home in Dixon. He was a farmer in the Lee County area for 47 years, retiring in 2000.  

Melvin was born Sept. 1, 1928, in Lee Center, the son of Ralph Modest and Elvina (Meyer) Haefner. He married Beverly Kinn on Oct. 15, 1950, in Dixon. She preceded him in death on Aug. 12, 2005. He served in the Army during the Korean War. Melvin was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was a member of First United Methodist Church in Dixon; Dixon Elks Lodge Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks 779; and Loyal Order of the Moose 727. He loved riding his Harley.

Survivors include two daughters, Pamela (Gene) Gascoigne of Lombard and Kimberly (Shawn) VonHolten of Dixon; one sister, Norma Quinn of Sterling; his daughter-in-law, Joann Haefner of Milledgeville; 11 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.