Melvin E. Speicher

Bud graduated from Chester High School in North Manchester, Indiana, in 1952. Shortly after, he proudly served in the United States Navy from November 1952 to November 1956 as an aviation mechanic and flight engineer.

In 1955, he married Jane McKown. They made Tidioute their home while Bud worked for National Forge in Irvine, Pennsylvania, where he dedicated 37 years–most of them in the Pressure System Division–before retiring in 1997.

After retirement, Bud and Jane enjoyed boating and traveling across the United States in their motor home. They later settled permanently in Casa Grande, Arizona, where they spent many happy years at Rodeo Estates. Jane preceded him in death in March 2025.

Bud was an avid sportsman who loved softball, bowling, and golf, and in later years enjoyed playing pool with friends at Rodeo Estates. In the early and mid-1960s, he was a formidable pitcher in the Warren fast pitch softball league. He was also a devoted dog lover.

He is survived by his son, Jon; his daughter, Noel; and his granddaughter, Caitlin.

At Bud’s request, no funeral service will be observed. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a local animal shelter in his memory.