ODESSA, Del. - Melvin N. Wallace, of Odessa, passed peacefully at home Saturday, January 7, 2012. Melvin was born in Odessa on March 19, 1920, and lived the majority of his life in Odessa. Melvin was a Word War II veteran. He enlisted in the US Navy October 1941, and was assigned to the USS Atlanta, a Navy cruiser. He participated in 19 engagements throughout the Pacific. He received the Presidential Unit Citation for outstanding performance during action against enemy Japanese forces off Guadalcanal Island, struck by one torpedo and no less than 49 shells. The Atlanta eventually succumbed to her wounds and went down. Upon his honorable discharge at the end of Word War II, Melvin returned to his hometown where he also volunteered his services with the Odessa Fire Company. Melvin dearly loved gathering with his family and friends at the family dock, the "Boathouse", in Odessa. He enjoyed boating, fishing, crabbing, and trapping. However, his foremost passion was cutting grass up to this past summer of 2011. He his survived by his daughter, Renee L. McGee; son, David L. Wallace and wife Donna; granddaughters, Kimberly L. Taylor and Denise L. Lindell and husband Jake; great-grandson, Jesse L. Taylor; great-granddaughters, Taylor and Ava Lindell; brother, "Chappy" Wallace; and sister, Helen McNatt. He was preceded in death by his wife, Elma L. Wallace; and two sons, Dennis T. Wallace and Larry M. Wallace. Also special to Melvin was his private caregiver, Shellie; his Sunday caregiver Tina and the family's dear friend Miss Kathleen. The family extends a special thank you to, Compassionate Care Hospice. Their care and compassion gave Melvin comfort and peace. Private services were held on Wednesday, January 11, 2012, at the Daniels and Hutchison Funeral Home LLC in Middletown, DE. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to Compassionate Care Hospice 702B Kirkwood Highway, Wilmington DE 19805. Arrangements by Daniels & Hutchison Funeral Home LLC. On-line condolences may be sent to www.daniels-hutchison.com.