Melvin Gerald Willis' Obituary
Melvin G. Willis, age 88, passed away November 22, 2014, at Newton Medical Center, Newton, KS, surrounded by his family. Melvin was born to Reuben and Emma Willis on October 8, 1926. He was a man of many interests, with a ready laugh, and a willingness to help anyone in need.
Melvin and wife, Donna, were married September 27, 1953. Melvin grew up in Chanute, Kansas, and farmed for 40 years. Melvin’s father, Reuben Willis, was the founder of Nu-Wa Industries, Chanute, KS. Melvin was one of the original officers in Nu-Wa Industries. Melvin traveled many miles delivering RV’s from Nu-Wa Industries until his retirement in 1991.
Melvin’s greatest passion, next to his wife of 61 years, was his family. Surviving family members include wife Donna of the home, Newton, KS; daughters, Sherida and husband Mark Gray, Wichita, KS; Diana and husband Herbert Swender, Garden City, KS; two sons, Rex and wife Sheryl, Eureka Springs, AR; and, David and wife Debbie, Francis, Utah. Melvin is survived by 18 grandchildren, and 10 great grandchildren.
Funeral service will be Friday, November 28, at 2:00 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church, Chanute, Kansas, with visitation following the service. Interment will be at a later date in Memorial Park Cemetery in Chanute.
Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church, 202 S. Lincoln, Chanute, Kansas, 66720, and may be left with or mailed to the funeral home.
Countryside Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
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