Patrick Duane “Goober” Melby, 69, of rural Moorhead, died on Friday, Oct. 18, 2024, at his home surrounded by his family. He was born on Nov. 18, 1956, in Denison, to Duane “Champ” and Myrna (Cline) Melby. Goober grew up in the Dunlap area and graduated from Dunlap High School in 1975. Goober started farming with his dad while in high school and continued farming all of his life. On May 27, 1977, Pat married Betty “Buff” Anderson. The couple farmed west of Dunlap all of their married life. Pat worked multiple jobs so that he could farm. Farming was his passion.
Goober farmed for the love of the land. He started farming with his grandpa and his dad and now farms with his son, his good friend, Dave Grindle and Kort. Goober loved cheering on the Iowa State Football team. He had a sense of humor and could make anyone smile. He loved to tease you, would always encourage you and loved to talk about sports. Goober really enjoyed spending time with his four grandchildren, ask anyone of them about smack down and you will get a huge smile.
Goober was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Bob Melby; two nieces, Amy Heffernan and Stacy Rock; and two brothers-in-law, Richard “Dick” Anderson and John W. Smith. He is survived by his wife Betty “Buff”; two children, Nick and Kadie; four grandchildren; Abby, Zoey, Maggie and Anderson; five siblings, William Melby of Dunlap, Sue Melby of Boxholm, Jody and her husband Marty Heffernan of Webster City, Kelly Melby of Omaha, Neb. and Shelly Melby of Richmond, Va.; sister-in-law, Sharon Melby of Arion; and many other relatives and friends.
There will be a Celebration of Life on Saturday, Nov. 16 from 3-5 p.m. at Goober and Buff’s shed.
Fouts Funeral Home is assisting Pat’s family with his arrangements.
