Melvin Duane Wells, 89, of Holton, KS, passed away Wednesday, December 30, 2020 at Village Villa in Nortonville, KS. He was born September 10, 1931 in St. Marys, KS, 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 United States Army during the Korean Conflict from 1952 – 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, Bud’s Tire Shop and ran the Jackson County Recycling Center until his retirement. He also served one term (4 years) with the Jackson County Commissioners.

          He was a member of Buck’s Grove United Methodist Church, Masonic Lodge #393 in Mayetta, V.F.W. Post 400 in Topeka and the DAV.

          Melvin married Norma Mae Huff on August 11, 1956 in Norcatur, KS; she preceded him in death on March 10, 1985. He married Carol James on May 10, 1986 in Mayetta, KS; she preceded him in death on October 26, 2014. He was also preceded in death by a daughter, Connie Jo Wells and 2 sisters, Beulah Jean Pierson and Florence Ann Werner.

          Survivors include 2 daughters, Susan Wells of Tulsa, OK and Janetta Johnson (Larry) of Independence, MO; a son, Dennis B. Wells (Linda) of Wiggins, CO; step-son, Roy Danks (Corrie) of Kirksville, MO; step-daughter, Robin Danks of Palo Alto, CA; 16 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.

          Melvin will lie in state Sunday, January 3, 2021 until 5:00 p.m. at Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Graveside Service with Military Honors will be 2:00 p.m. Monday, January 4, 2021 at the 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.