Daniel C. Melchior, III, PhD, originally from Randolph Township, NJ, recently passed away in Alexandria, VA. Dr. Melchior’s studies and work led him from New Jersey to Colorado, to California, and finally Virginia.

Dr. Melchior is survived by his wife of 23 years, Loren Sweatt, and their much-loved children, Daniel and Mitchell. He is also survived by his parents, Camilla and Dan Melchior of Randolph Township, as well as brother, Charles and his wife Caroline of New York City, and beloved aunt, Marilyn Mazzilli of NJ.

After earning a Bachelor of Science in chemistry at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, Dan earned both a Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy in geochemistry at the Colorado School of Mines. As a licensed professional geologist, his interest in mining and geology led to mineral exploration throughout the Western United States and a career in environmental remediation. That career morphed into niche projects in space programs, commercial aviation, and eventually back to his first interest, in chemistry.

As an Eagle Scout, Dan shared a love of outdoor adventures with his children. Dan will be remembered for being a devoted fan of the Baltimore Ravens and Tottenham Hotspurs, an appreciation of a good fishing trip, gourmet cooking, and for his biting wit.

Dan will be laid to rest surrounded by family in a private service. Donations in his memory may be made to the National Capital Area Council, Scouts BSA (Marriott Scout Service Center, 9190 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20814 or www.NCACBSA.org/tribute), or the Friends of Mines Museum, working to promote K-12 STEM education, Colorado School of Mines (ATTN: Mines Museum of Earth Science, Colorado School of Mines Foundation, P.O. Box 912031, Denver, CO  80291-2031or https://www.mines.edu/museumofearthscience/donate/).

Friends and relatives may visit at the Davis and Hepplewhite Funeral Home,96 Main St., Succasunna, NJ 973-584-7264 (davishepplewhitefh.com) on Friday (March 25th) from 3 – 5 & 7 – 9  pm.