Edward Melvin “Mel” Zaft, 79 of Haverhill, died Thursday morning after a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Methuen, the son of Abraham and Lillian Zaft, he graduated Methuen High School and attended Boston University. He has resided in Haverhill for the past 18 years and Andover for 20 years prior. He owned and operated Al’s Auto Supply first in Lawrence and then Andover until his retirement. Mel served as President of Congregation Ansha Shulim of Lawrence, Committee for Children of Abraham Cemetery in Lawrence and Aleppo Temple of Shriners. He was the devoted husband Arleen (Elias) Zaft; beloved father of Judy and her husband Larry Matulsky, Steven and Robyn Zaft and step-father of Jonathan Weiner. He was the cherished grandfather of Eric, Joshua, Max, Jessica and Jamie. He was also the brother of the late Rona & her husband Jack Blumkin and Dear uncle of Mark & Amy Blumkin and Ian Tarlie.
Services at Temple Emanuel 7 Haggetts Pond Road (off Route 133) Andover on Monday June 13 at 1; 00 PM. Interment in Children of Abraham Cemetery, Lawrence. Condolence calls may be made following the interment at his late residence until 8PM and also on Tuesday and Wednesday 4-8PM. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made to Cong. Ansha Shulim PO Box 1045 Lawrence, MA. 01842.