Melvin E. Harvitt, 68, of Elyria passed away Sunday January 4, 2015 at the New Life Hospice Residential Center following a brief illness. He was born February 5, 1946 in Elyria and was a lifelong Elyria resident. Melvin worked at the Moen Company in Elyria as a welder for 30 years, retiring in in 2001. He was also the former owner of the Empire Tavern on Lake Avenue in Elyria and enjoyed gambling. Survivors include his daughter, Jennifer Manik of Lorain; son, Del Harvitt of Elyria; 3 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; sister, Barb Lucas of Columbus. He was preceded in death by his sisters, Margaret Mehan and Sue McElwee. A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held on Saturday January 24, 2015 from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Elyria Eagles Club 1255 Lowell St., Elyria. In liue of flowers memorial contributions can be made to New Life Hospice 3700 Kolbe Rd. Lorain, OH. 44053. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Laubenthal-Mercado Funeral Home and Cremation Services 38475 Chestnut Ridge Rd. Elyria. Online condolences may be expressed at www.laubenthalmercado.com Service: 4:00-8:00 PM Saturday January 24, 2015 Celebration of Life Elyria Eagles Club 1255 Lowell St. Elyria, OH. Visitation: 4:00-8:00 PM Saturday January 24, 2015 Elyria Eagles Club 1255 Lowell St. Elyria, OH.