Melvin Dale Klotz, Sr, 86, affectionately known as Mel, reunited with the Lord and his beloved wife on Tuesday, December 6, 2022 at the Nevada Regional Medical Center following a battle with chronic illness.  Melvin was born on July 12, 1936 at home in Gorham, KS to Matilda Klotz.  He spent his early years in Kansas with his mother and maternal grandparents on the family farmstead, and later served in the United States Army.  In Great Bend, KS he met his wife Darlene “Jackie” Jackson.  They were wed on July 10, 1961 and spent fifty-nine years building their life and family together in Nevada, Missouri.

Melvin enjoyed working as a trucker, farmer, and pharmacy delivery driver.  His careers included Schlitz Brewing Company, Highland Dairy Products, and Wilkinson Pharmacy.  He enjoyed horses, farming, professional bull riding, and spending time with his dog, Bandit.

Melvin is survived by four children and their spouses, Linda and Kurt Fecht of Walker, MO; Doug and Cindy Webb of Carthage, MO, Dale and Melissa Klotz of Nevada, MO Kelly and Kerri Klotz of Kansas City, MO, and son-in-law, Lynn Cliffman of Nevada, MO.  His memory lives on as well through numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, cousins, nieces, and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his wife, Darlene (Jackson) Klotz, his mother, Matilda (Klotz) Simon, step father, William Simon, half-brother, Gene Klein, and his eldest child, Sharon (Webb) Cliffman.

A memorial service for Melvin and his adored wife, Jackie will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, December 10, 2022 at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada with Pastor Roger Beech officiating.  A graveside committal will follow in the Newton Burial Park.