Mel Elgersma was inducted into the CD HOF, Player Category by Past President Fred Wilkens.  Shown above are Mel, wife Gertrude, and Presenter Fred Wilkens.

During his remarks at the CD HOF Classic event in Winter Haven, FL, Fred highlighted Mel’s Shuffleboard career.  He reminded the audience of Mel’s Very Quiet BUT Very Determined style.  Whether ahead or behind in the game, Mel remained steadfast and resolved, two characteristics which benefited Mel and his partners.

In his remarks, Mel paid tribute to his many partners but there was no doubt that his greatest PARTNER, his greatest SUPPORTER was the RADIANT WOMAN IN THE PHOTO ABOVE!!  At the conclusion of Mel’s reply, the audience came to their feet in respect, and gave Mel a truly resounding and sustained round of applause.

Stan McCormack.  2011 03 13. 

Posted on 2016-01-31 by stanistheman

Mel Elgersma left us on January 30th, 2016.  There will be a memorial service on Saturday, Feb 6th at 11:00 a.m. at the First Methodist Church, 72 Lake Morton Dr., Lakeland, FL 33801.

Mel Elgersma celebrated his 79^th Birthday at the 2007 HOF Classic (March 15^th).  The entire audience joyfully sang Happy Birthday!!!!  During our dinner following the Hall of Fame Classic of 2007 I had the opportunity to speak with Gertrude; she had this to say about Mel: “I don’t know what to say; I couldn’t ask for a better man ~~ He is such a sweet heart;” Gertrude said that she would like to express it more clearly and I commented that “she could not have expressed it better ~~ and further that all assembled would agree that Mel is indeed a kind and considerate gentleman!!”  Gert added that although Mel was celebrating his 79^th, He looked much younger than he did 2 or 3 years ago ~~ no doubt because of the good care and love they are exchanging!!