Peacefully, on Sunday, March 4, 2018, Melvin James McManes, formerly of Odd Fellows Corner, Brandon, and Alexander, Manitoba, passed away at the Assiniboine Centre. Born to Sara and James McManes on May 15, 1916 at Alexander District, Melvin, the eldest of three boys, grew up on the family farm at Alexander. He enjoyed working with his father, especially if it involved working with horses. Melvin attended Alexander School, graduating grade 11 in 1932. He met Margery Barnes in 1943 and they were married November 21, 1945. Marge passed away in October 1986. Melvin was a life-long farmer, starting out alongside his father and brothers, then working with his son Don. They raised cattle, horses and swine, showing his animals at various exhibitions, in addition to operating a large grain operation. Over the years, Melvin continued to study farming taking many short courses. An active member of the community, Melvin was involved with multiple groups and organizations including the Alexander Curling Club, Alexander Community Club, Alexander United Church, Masonic Lodge, Whiteheads seniors group, Limousin and Shorthorn Cattle Associations, Manitoba Seed Growers and Manitoba Pool Elevators. He was a 4-H leader for many years with the South Brandon and Alexander Kemnay Beef clubs. He was an avid reader, enjoyed learning new things, and loved playing cards - especially Cribbage. Melvin and Marge travelled to many places in Canada and the United States, spending numerous winters in Alberta and BC with his daughters and their families. At age 93 years, Melvin travelled to Ireland visiting Lough Melvin in Northern Ireland as well as the area from where his grandparents originated. He loved his many trips in the semi with his son-in-law Mike and later with his son Don. Melvin is survived by daughters Dorothy Bradford, Pat (Mike) Ryan; son Donald (Carol); son-in-law Robert Belcher; grandchildren Kathleen (Craig) Robertson, Patrick Bradford, David and Glen (Emily) Ryan, Andrew (Holly), Sara, Heather, Keith McManes (Christina Creaser); great-grandchildren James and Melody Robertson, Hayley, Tyrin and Ryleigh McManes, Jordan Creaser and Cole Brauner; sisters-in-law Pat McManes, Shirley McManes, Jean (Les) Medd; brother-in-law Bob (Pat) Barnes and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife Margery; son Glen; daughter Wendy Belcher; son-in-law Jim Bradford; brothers Frank and Hugh McManes; sisters-in-law Bobby McManes, Marion (Jim) Glover, Ev (Clare) Boneham, Mary (Howard) Maher, and Dawn (Herb) Maskell; brother-in-law Bill (Eunice) Barnes; niece Dianna McManes; nephew Jack Boneham and Melvin's special friend Marti Eagle. A Celebration of Melvin's Life will take place at Trinity United Church, 1515-6th Street, Brandon, on Monday, May 7, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. Rev. Doug Neufeld will officiate. Melvin will be laid to rest in a private ceremony at the Alexander Cemetery. Donations in memory of Melvin may be made to a charity of choice.