Melvin Wells 1931-2020
Melvin Duane Wells, 89, of Holton, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 30, 2020, at Village Villa in Nortonville.
He was born Sept. 10, 1931, in St. Marys, the son of Harold Orville and Hazel Florence (Hawk) Wells.
Melvin graduated from St. Marys High School in 1950. He attended one year at Baker University and played on the Baker University Wildcat football team. He proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War from 1952 to 1954.
He lived in the Holton community since 2006 and previously in Buck’s Grove, Mayetta and St. Marys.
Melvin was a farmer and stockman for most of his life. He also worked for Lutz Construction in Topeka and Bud’s Tire Shop and ran the Jackson County Recycling Center until his retirement. He also served one term (four years) with the Jackson County Commission. He also worked for Royal Valley School District for several years and drove the school bus.
He was a member of Buck’s Grove United Methodist Church, Masonic Lodge #393 in Mayetta, VFW Post 400 in Topeka and the DAV. He was honored to be the Grand Marshal in the Holton Parade. He was a member of 4-H for more than 10 years and the Mayetta Mustangs.
Melvin married Norma Mae Huff on Aug. 11, 1956, in Norcatur; she preceded him in death on March 10, 1985. He married Carol James on May 10, 1986, in Mayetta; she preceded him in death on Oct. 26, 2014. He was also preceded in death by a daughter, Connie Jo Wells; and two sisters, Beulah Jean Pierson and Florence Ann Werner.
Survivors include two daughters, Susan Wells of Tulsa, Okla., and Janetta Johnson (Larry) of Independence, Mo.; a son, Dennis B. Wells (Linda) of Wiggins, Colo.; a stepson, Roy Danks (Corrie) of Kirksville, Mo.; a stepdaughter, Robin Danks of Palo Alto, Calif.; 16 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
Graveside services with military honors will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, Jan. 4 in Holton Cemetery.
Memorials may be given to the DAV (Disabled American Veterans). Due to the critical situation we all are in, please remember the families during this difficult time and consider sending a card of condolence or posting on our website. Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. www.mercerfuneralhomes.com
(PAID OBITUARY)
