Melvin William Economou, 92, passed away on October 22, 2023 at New London Hospital after a long time with cancer.

He was born on October 26, 1930 in Claremont, NH, son of William and Lillian (Beattie) Economou.

He was a Stevens High School graduate, in the class of 1950. He played basketball and football for sports. He was in a bowling league in Newport. He was in the US Army for 2 years.

He had worked for International Shoe Shop when he got out of school. He met his wife, Gerry, while working at Newport Shoe. When they closed, he went to work for LaValley Building Supply. He retired from there in 1996, after about 25 years.

He was a member of the Newport Moose Club, The American Legion, Newport Senior Center, The John Cain Golf Club and Foresters.

Mel married the love of his life. They were married for 63 years. He also called her his angel. Gerry was his caregiver and took good care of him.

He is survived by his wife, Geraldine (Clow) Smith Economou; children, Donald Economou, Elaine Economou Starcher and her husband, Chris and Linda Smith Johnson and her husband, Philip; grandchildren, Mark Economou, Josh Starcher and wife, Molly, Jeff Starcher and wife, Malarie, Laurie and her husband, Ron Gifford and Jennifer and her husband, Steven Conant; great grandchildren, Nora Starker, Steven Umbrecht, Patrick Umbrecht, Sarah Gifford and Malcolm Lewis; great great grandchild, Phillip Umbrecht; numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, a brother, Clifford Kees and stepson, James Smith.

Visiting hours will be held at Stringer Funeral Home in Claremont on November 4th from 2 to 3PM. A memorial service will be at 3PM, followed by burial in Mountain View Cemetery.

Donations can be made to the Newport Senior Center, 76 Main Street, Newport, NH 03773.