IN LOVING MEMORY

Melvin Harley Jasmin

August 2, 1934 — July 24, 2026

“Those we love remain part of every story we tell.”

Their story

A life remembered.

Melvin Harley Jasmin, of Warrenton, Oregon, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2026, while hospitalized in Portland, Oregon, following an illness. He was born on August 2, 1934, and lived a remarkable life defined by service, faith, family, and an unwavering commitment to his community. Mel was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Elizabeth “Betsy” Ross Jasmin, in 2024, whose partnership in both life and service was one of his greatest blessings.

Mel proudly served his country in the United States Navy, the United States Marine Corps, the Oregon Army National Guard, and the U.S. Army Reserve. His military career earned him numerous honors, including many Service & Defense Medals, Distinctions and Commendations recognizing his dedication and professionalism. His life-long commitment to public service continued through more than four decades in law enforcement, security, and public safety as well.

Mel devoted himself to serving others. He was a certified Oregon mediator, an Oregon Long-Term Care Ombudsman advocating for seniors, an instructor at Clatsop Community College teaching Oregon's private security certification program, and an AARP Driver Safety instructor. He also served on the Warrenton-Hammond School District Board, the Northwest Oregon Housing Authority, the Warrenton Urban Renewal Advisory Committee, and the Sunset Empire Transportation Advisory Committee. He co-founded the Clatsop County Veterans Speaker Bureau, coordinated Toys for Tots and the annual Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Memorial Awards, served as Commander of VFW Post 10580, and remained active in numerous veterans and civic organizations throughout his retirement.

Together, Mel and Betsy shared a life centered on faith, volunteerism, and family. In March of 2024, they celebrated 50 years of being married. They managed apartment communities, worked side by side on countless community projects, and faithfully attended Lighthouse Christian Church in Warrenton Oregon. Their greatest joy came from spending time with their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren while leaving a lasting legacy of compassion, integrity, and service.

Mel is survived by his children; Serina Olson and her husband Howard of Warrenton, Oregon; Mickie Jasmin of Grants Pass, Oregon; Samuel Jasmin and his wife Carrie of Warrenton, Oregon; Troy Jasmin and his wife Jennie of Shelton, Washington. He was preceded in death by his son, Clayton Jasmin of Nevada. He is also lovingly remembered by many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family members, fellow veterans, former students, colleagues, and countless friends whose lives were enriched by his guidance and friendship.

Mel will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, proud veteran, respected law enforcement officer, trusted community leader and tireless advocate for all in his path. His life was one of quiet strength, honor, and selfless service. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched, the people he mentored, and the family he loved so deeply. A celebration of life will be held at a future date, open to all. Please share a story and or pictures with the family at joinusevents.com/meljasmin online.

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Stories about Melvin Harley Jasmin.

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Mel and Betsy were a perfect match, reminiscent of hot salsa and cool sour cream. I greatly enjoyed their company, kindness, and good humor. As a newcomer to the Astoria Police Department, Mel was the first officer I met (he was tasked with collecting my fingerprints), and he always made a point of greeting me when he was on duty. Mel advocated for a strong crime prevention program and succeeded in persuading the department to move forward in several areas that were helpful to the public, such as property engraving tools and record keeping, property assessments with recommendations for "hardening the target," and community workshops. Mel was an excellent auctioneer when it was time to dispose of found, unclaimed property and abandoned vehicles. He was charismatic, and people immediately warmed to him. I often wondered if the sales were due to his charm or the item purchased. His list of achievements would be overwhelming for a group of people, but those who knew him, understood it as "Mel." May he rest in peace in God's embrace.

I remember Mel from our time together in our local Marine Veterans group MCL Detachment 1228. Mel was one of the founding members of our detachment. Mel started our annual awards for Law Enforcement Officer of the Year. Mel was also heavily involved in our Toys-4-Tots program every Christmas. Mel was a marvelous friend, an outstanding Marine, and a gentleman. He always had a positive and pleasant word to say about everybody. He always looked for ways to help out anyone who needed assistance. Mel had a life well lived. He will be missed and will never be forgotten.

Mel was a good friend and a dedicated Warrenton-Hammond School Board member. He was always volunteering his time and Troy’s time to help improve the school district safety and security which resulted in saving the district considerable funds. He enjoyed the time he spent in the “Reading to First Graders” program and participating in other school activities. Mel’s down to earth opinions were always valued by me when I served as the school district’s Interim Superintendent.

I became a Life Member of the local VFW chapter thanks to Mel’s encouragement. We had many discussions about our service in the military. He was a proud Veteran that loved his country. I always enjoyed stopping by and seeing Mel and Betsy on my trips in the area and taking them to dinner.

My wife didn’t know Mel very well, but recognized him as I relayed the sad news of his passing. She indicated, wasn’t he the one that just sent me a birthday card? Her birthday had just passed at the end of June and Mel had also sent me a birthday card in May of this year. Mel was always so considerate and will be missed by many, including ourselves. RIP my friend!

I SALUTE YOU!

George D Lanning

I will always remember Mel & Betz for their love for each other & the fine family they raised,You will not find a finer young man than Sam. Bud

My father was a loving, caring, dedicated man with many levels to his personality that not everyone saw. He was a comic, a warrior, a law man, a father, a husband and a dedicated community member to all that crossed his path. I will always remember my father for his unwavering service to others and his love of his military veterans that he always felt were left behind after wars forgotten. I love my father for his defects and his triumphs that brought all of us kids to the places we are today. You will be deeply missed dad..... until I see you again.... Love you so much and the pain is just finally starting to hit.