Melvin J. Hurst, 76, of Ephrata, PA, passed away on November 4, 2018 at home surrounded by his family. Born and raised in Lancaster county, he grew up in a Mennonite home with an 8th grade education. Mel was married to Ruth for 55 years. They enjoyed traveling around the world. He was successful in real estate and was instrumental in numerous development projects throughout Lancaster county. Mel then continued investing his time and expertise as a small business consultant, life coach, personal mentor and coach to members of the real estate community. His success in investment was not limited to that of real estate. Mel was always active in multiple business ventures simultaneously throughout his life. He served on multiple board of directors. He spent his lifetime deeply investing in the lives that he touched and came into contact with. He was a charter member and president of a chapter of FGBMFI. Mel was also a co-founder of the Worship Center, a 4,000+ member independent church in Leola, PA. His endless passion for fishing was only surpassed by his desire to win souls for the Kingdom of Heaven. Mel was given the gift of Evangelism and shared Christ's love with everyone he knew. In addition to his wife, Ruth, Mel is survived by a daughter, Leslie Bennett (Ben) of Kerrville, TX; grandchildren: Alexander, Sophia, Nicholas, and twins, Christopher and Anthony; siblings: Harold Hurst (Jane), Leon Hurst (Rosella) and Janet Horst (Glenn). Mel is preceded in death by a daughter, Sharon; his parents: Reuben and Leah (Martin) Hurst; and brothers: Earl and Glenn. Family and friends will be received on Wednesday, November 7, 2018 from 3-5 PM and 6-8 PM at the Worship Center, 2384 New Holland Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601. Visitation will continue on Thursday, November 8, 2018 from 9:30-11 AM with a Celebration of Mel's Life to begin at 11 AM at the Worship Center. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Melvin to the Worship Center, Missions Fund.