James Allen Melsha was born to William and Truly Melsha on June 16, 1944 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.  James passed away on March 7, 2023 in Salem, Oregon with both of his loving daughters by his side at the age of 78.  He graduated from Jefferson High School in Cedar Rapids in 1962.  James married Roberta LaBelle Wells on July 31, 1965 at Calvary Baptist Church in Cedar Rapids.  James and Roberta were married for 55 years before Roberta's passing on September 18, 2020.

James and Roberta moved to Keizer, Oregon where James worked for the sporting goods store Stout's for a short time.  In the early 1980's he went to work for the state of Oregon with the Oregon State Police at the State Capitol Building and as a range master.  He retired from the OSP in 2003 and continued to work for several more years as a retiree.

James enjoyed travelling to many places with Roberta and his family.  He had many things that he was passionate about, wildlife and scenic photography, collecting and reading books, cooking and woodworking.

James is survived by his daughters, Jennifer Berry (Robert) of Salem and Tonia Brechtel (Michael) of Salem; 7 grandchildren, Anthony, Andrew, Elizabeth, Matthew, Timothy, William and Michaela; 5 great-grandchildren, Brandon, Sophia, David, Caden and Nathan; his brother, Don Melsha (Carolyn), as well as many nieces and nephews.

James was preceded in death by his wife, Roberta LaBelle (Wells) Melsha; father, William Edward Melsha and mother, Truly Delores (Kloubec) Melsha Waskow.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Friday,  March 24, 2023 at the Czech National Cemetery in Cedar Rapids.  A location and time for gathering to follow the burial is to be determined.