Melvin Glenn Poling, age 88, formerly of Winchester, Virginia, passed away peacefully on May 21, 2026, in Gainesville, Virginia. He was born on November 29, 1937, in New Sewickley, Pennsylvania . He is survived by his wife Alberta Mabel Poling (Campbell). He is preceded in death by his parents, Lauren Dennis Poling and Stella Maria Poling (Reesman), brother Dennis “Bud” Poling, sister Avonelle Shaddock, and sister Audry Kohlman.
Melvin’s life was a testament to hard work and devotion to family. He and his family moved to Harrisonburg, Virginia from Warren, Pennsylvania in 1978, and then later settled in Winchester, Virginia. In 2025, he and Alberta moved to assisted living in Gainesville, Virginia. He was a graduate of Penn State University, having earned a bachelor of science degree in Wood Utilization, and a second bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering. He also was a licensed Professional Engineer. Melvin and Alberta primarily raised their 3 children in Warren, Pennsylvania, while working for the Corps of Engineers. In this role, he was a key team member during construction on one of the largest dams east of the Mississippi River and associated recreational facilities – Kinzua Dam located in Allegheny National Forest. Known for his ability to fix about anything and his engineering prowess, he was a problem solver at heart. Beyond his professional life, Melvin was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying hunting, fishing, the tradition of splitting firewood, a passion he passed down to his sons and cheering on his Penn State Nittany Lions. After retiring from the Corps, he returned to part-time work on several international construction assignments. His passion for community engagement found him serving roles at Bethel Lutheran Church in Winchester, as well as in the Moose Lodge, Elks Lodge, Masonic Blue Lodge, Scottish Rite Consistory, and the Izaak Walton League. As a Moose Lodge Ritualist, he and his team often placed in the one of the top 3 positions in Virginia state competition several years running, and one year in 5th place during an international championship. In his later years, he spent countless days striving to keep the deer out of his garden, the gophers from burrowing under his front porch, and the property around his and his wife’s home maintained and manicured.
He met the love of his life, Alberta Mable Campbell, at a church youth group when she was just 12 and he was 15. They celebrated their 66th wedding anniversary last August 15, 2025. Their love story was one of quiet understanding and joint purpose, as evidenced by their lasting bond.
He is survived by his loving wife and their 3 children – Kurt Poling and his wife Lisa Poling (Melnick), Teri Poling, and Jeff Poling and his wife Jeanette Poling (Pistolesi). Melvin also leaves behind 11 grandchildren, which includes 3 step-grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren, which includes 8 step-great-grandchildren.
Melvin Glenn Poling’s life was a testament to love, perseverance, and community. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
At Melvin’s and Alberta’s request, a private memorial service will be held at a later date, with interment at Bethel Lutheran Church’s Memorial Garden. In lieu of flowers, donations be directed to Bethel Lutheran Church general fund, or any local food bank.
