Melvin Vernon Bird of Ammon, died December 20, 2011, at Peak Village Assisted Living Center in Ammon. He was born November 28, 1920, in Pocatello, Idaho to Vernon C. and Mabel M. Covert Bird. Melvin grew up in Pocatello and graduated from Pocatello High School in 1939. Melvin married Mona Williams on December 21, 1940 in Pocatello. Shortly after their marriage they moved to Los Angeles, California where Melvin was employed by Lockheed Aircraft Corp. He attended UCLA prior to enlistment with the US Navy Seabees serving in WWII. Melvin returned from military service in 1948. With their two sons, Dean and Tyss Bird, moved to Pocatello to be near Idaho State College. Melvin graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Design in 1952. Melvin was hired by the Engineering Department of American Cyanamid Co. he was an active contributor to many designs used in the nuclear industry, including the Electrolytic Dissolution process, the operations of the Submarine Thermal Reactor Program, and the radioactive Lanthanum process radioactive barium. His work with the INL involved in the generation of conceptual designs in which these documents went to Washington DC getting politicians to send money to Idaho. After 30 years he retired from the INL with great honor of achievement. Melvin enjoyed golfing, bowling, and spending time with friends. He was a Member of the Elks Lodge for 26 years. They made the trip often from Malad to Idaho Falls to visit their two sons and eight grandchildren. They attended many of their school plays, ceremonies and birthday parties. Melvin is survived by his son Melvin Dean Bird (Dixie) of Idaho Falls; 8 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Mona Bird; and son, Tyss Bird. Private family services will be held at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of Coltrin Mortuary, 2100 First St. Idaho Falls. Condolences may be sent online at www.coltrinmortuary.com