Seth D. Melde

Seth D. Melde, 24, of Onalaska, died Sunday, November 2, 2014, at University of Wisconsin Hospital in Madison from complications related to Cystic Fibrosis.

He was born September 16, 1990, in La Crosse, to David and Joni (Nixon) Melde. Seth graduated from Onalaska High School in 2009 and went on to study Emergency Medical Services at Western Technical College in La Crosse. Seth was deeply passionate about helping others and served as a Volunteer First Responder for Brice Prairie EMS & Rescue from 2011 until the time of his death, responding to hundreds of calls during his time with them. Seth was known for his calm demeanor and expertise during emergency situations, and often put his patients and his team before himself. Seth looked to expand his knowledge of the EMS field through paramedic coursework at Chippewa Valley Technical College this winter.

A strong advocate for Cystic Fibrosis awareness, Seth attended many fundraisers for Cystic Fibrosis research, even acting as the keynote speaker at the Sixty-Five Roses Golf Classic in July, 2010. Seth was renowned for his humor and upbeat attitude, and was keen to make others laugh - a smile was never far away when around Seth. With great courage and resolve, Seth underwent a successful double-lung transplant in April 2014 and enjoyed 7 beautiful months uninhibited by oxygen tanks or vest therapy treatments. Seth’s courage, positivism, and passion for service will continue to awe and inspire his friends and family for years to come.

Preceding him in death are his grandparents, Charles Nixon, and Edward and Geraldine Melde.

Seth is survived by his mother, Joni Nixon of Onalaska; father and step-mother, David and Sarah Melde of Rochester; brother, Justin Melde of Seattle; step-brothers Cody Geddes, stationed in the Navy, and Blaine Geddes, of Grand Forks, N. Dak.; grandmother and step-grandfather, Barbara and Dwayne Palmer; godmother, Pam Buckwalter; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. He also leaves many great friends and other relatives to mourn his passing. Seth will be sorely missed by many.

Our special thanks to Dr. Todd Mahr; the Cystic Fibrosis team at Gundersen Lutheran Hospital; and the wonderful staff of the University of Wisconsin-Madison Hospital.

His wonderful spirit, joy, and talents will be celebrated at noon Saturday, November 8th, at Schumacher-Kish Funeral and Cremation Services, 200 West Avenue So., La Crosse. Visitation will begin at 10:00 am Saturday with service to follow at the funeral home. A gathering for lunch will be held at the Moose Lodge, 1932 Ward Ave., La Crosse, following the service.