06/17/2026
Dave and Bev were married in the old Melrose church during a memorable cold spell on December 23, 1960. Following Dave’s service in the Army, the couple returned to his hometown.
Bev devoted her career to education, spending 23 years as a beloved first-grade teacher in the Melrose school. Generations of local children were welcomed into the classroom by Mrs. Sinclair, and she still enjoys visiting with former students and hearing about their lives and families.
Dave made his living in agriculture, spending many years as a cattle buyer. He established the Rafter S Farms brand, building a farm that would be passed down to multiple generations.
Together, Dave and Bev raised three sons: David, Dan, and Tony (Kellie). Family has always been at the center of their lives, and they are well-known for wholeheartedly loving and spoiling their grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Dave and Bev have long been familiar and friendly faces in Melrose. Bev’s artistic talents can still be seen in the window mural she painted on the south side of the downtown building in Melrose. In retirement, she enjoys gathering with friends for cards and bingo. Dave is enjoying a well-earned retirement filled with western movies, though he can still be found lending a hand in the hayfield whenever the opportunity arises. Dave is an active member of the American Legion and serves at many military funerals. He has carried the flag in the Melrose Fourth of July parade for many years.
Dave and Bev are honored to serve as the King and Queen of this year’s Fourth of July celebration and are looking forward to another wonderful community gathering. If you attend the festivities, you’ll likely find them in their favorite spot—sitting in lawn chairs under the big tree at the bottom of the hill. Be sure to stop by and say hello!
