MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA, U.S. — Melvin R. Mai, former International Grain Elevator and Processing Society (GEAPS) president, passed away Jan. 7. He was 78.
Mai, a lifetime member of the Gulf South Chapter, served as GEAPS' 50th International president from 1980-81. At the time of his presidential term, he had been a regular member for 11 years, and had been named GEAPS' Member of Distinction in 1979. This prestigious award is bestowed by the GEAPS International board of directors to give special recognition to members who have made extraordinary contributions to the advancement and pursuit of GEAPS' vision and mission.
He also served in a chapter leadership role, going on to win the Gulf South Chapter Member of Distinction honor in 1997 for outstanding leadership and service at the chapter level.
A GEAPS member for 44 years, Mai was a veteran of the U.S. Army and a member of the Knights of Columbus, St. Andrew #9107.
He is survived by his wife, Delores Mai, two daughters and two grandsons.