Alton, NH

Melba Oickle

On January 13th, 2018, Melba (Belmont) Oickle of Alton, NH, passed away. She was wrapped in her family's love as she peacefully left this earth. She was a young, 92 yrs. old. Melba was born on October 11th,1925, the daughter of Dorothy and Nevil Collins. She grew up in Haverhill, Mass. Melba graduated from Haverhill High in 1942. She married her husband, Gordon Oickle in 1949. They raised three children, Bob, Bonnie, and Gary. In 1966 she and her family moved to Alton Bay, NH. where they converted their lakeside summer cottage into a year round home.
Melba enjoyed being a homemaker. However, at various times, she was employed as a top notch baker at McGrath's store, Alton Central school and at several local summer camps. As soon as folks had a chance to sample her delectable, sweet treats, they were hooked. Many will remember with savory delight, her 'fresh' bread, 'wacky cake', Santa Claus cookies, pies, blonde brownies and professionally decorated wedding and birthday cakes. Baking was her passion! She was also a childcare provider for many years. Melba was an avid exerciser. Back in the 1950's she began each day with Jack LaLane. After Jack went off the air, Melba continued to exercise, hardly ever missing a day, until she was well into her 80's.
She enjoyed her flower gardens, listening to music, watching her 'stories' and spending time with family and friends. She and Gordon enjoyed dancing away the night. They were quite a hit at the Alton Carnival Ball, back in the 60's and 70's. During summers, they enjoyed the Alton Bay concerts.
Melba was predeceased by her husband Gordon, her sister Eva Oickle and her brothers Mike, Gradon, and Merle. She leaves behind a sister, Barbara Seeley, brother in law, Kenny Oickle, her children: Robert, his wife Marilyn of Greenwood, Maine; Bonnie Dodge of Alton, NH and Gary, his wife Kris of Wolfeboro, NH, her grandchildren: Brian, Jenny, Eric, Sammy, Gretchen, Dan, Ames and Duncan; lots of great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
There will be a graveside celebration of Melba's life in the spring. Her family will post the date on Facebook as well as at www.peasleefuneralhome.com.
A special thanks to the staff at Wolfeboro Bay Rehab. Your love and care, kindness and humor, made all the difference in her stay. We're grateful to you all.