Melvin “Mel” Straley, 88, of Wampum PA passed away at Heritage Valley Medical Center on Friday, June 21st, 2024.

Mel was born, raised and lived in Wampum PA. He was born on November 28th, 1935 to the late Robert Ellis and Josephine Straley and was one of 11 children. He graduated from Lincoln High School in Ellwood City PA and went on to get his undergraduate degree from Geneva College. He further went on to get his Master’s degree from Youngstown State University. Mel worked in the accounting department for Armco Steel, Babcock & Wilcox Steel Mill, and Zinc Corp. in Monaca, but his love was auto racing. He crashed many (many) times at Clinton, Mercer, Hickory and even flipped over a few times at Butler. He always raced the number 50 car that was usually painted – any color that was free.

He was predeceased by his parents and his daughter Deborah Lee Straley, 71 formerly of Monaca PA.

Mel is survived by his wife Virginia Lee Straley of 71 years and his remaining children, Mevin D. Straley, Melanie Budkey (Kurt Wolfe) and Ellis Straley (Matthew Hofacker). Mel was known as “Pappy” and dearly loved by his 8 grandchildren.

At Mel’s request there will be no public services. Interment will be at the Clinton Cemetery. The final arrangements are entrusted to the Samuel Teolis Funeral Home and Crematory Inc.. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be sent in his name to Lifesteps where his daughter Debbie lived until her death earlier this year : Lifesteps Central Office, 383 New Castle Rd., Butler, Pa 16001.