Melvin Lee Christian, 83, formerly of Perryton, passed away peacefully on Nov. 16, 2022, at Brookdale Assisted Living in La Crosse, WI, surrounded by his family.
He was born on Feb. 20, 1939, in Lyons, KS, to Ralph and Virginia Christian. Melvin married his High School Sweetheart Roberta Stevens on Dec. 27, 1961, in Ellinwood, KS.
Melvin enjoyed spending time with his family above all else. He and Roberta would travel many miles to be able to watch all his grandkids’ extracurricular activities while they were growing up.
He also enjoyed fishing and gardening and was known to trap some of the wild cats that were trespassing in the yard and garden. Mel took pride in making his Homemade Beef Jerky and his Famous Party Mix at Christmas and would always share with family and friends.
He also enjoyed spending his time helping his wife Roberta delivering Meals on Wheels and Snack Pak 4 Kids, as well as helping with the Wreaths Across America in December.
Melvin served in the Army and was stationed in Panama from 1961 to 1964. He then began working for Amoco in the oil field for 35 years as an Oil Field Foreman before retiring. He truly exemplified what it meant to work hard while also prioritizing family.
Melvin is survived by his loving wife Roberta Christian; three sons, Steve (Kathleen) Christian of La Crosse, WI; Scott (Teresa) Christian of Wichita, KS; and Sean Christian of Decatur, IL; 12 grandchildren, Kaleb Christian, Tyler Christian, Blake Christian (Fiancée Sydney), Courtney (Preston) Frie, Jared Christian, Austin (Anna) Christian, Conner Christian, Joshua Christian, Mackensi Christian, Arianna Christian, Zoe Christian, and Bailey Christian; and two great-grandsons, Lucas Frie and Mason Christian. He is also survived by his brother Jon (Cheryl) Christian of Hillsboro, KS as well as several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by parents, Ralph and Virginia Christian.
The family would like to thank Jack and Christi Roberts and family and Richard Henderson for all their love, support, and care of Mel. A special thank you to Brookdale Senior Living staff, Dr. Adam Skemp, and La Cross Mayo Hospice for caring for our loved one.
In following with Mel’s wishes, he will be cremated, and a family grave-side service will be held later.
Anyone wishing to send memorials, please make checks out to Wreaths Across America, and in the memo section, put in memory of Mel Christian. Mail to the Wolf Creek Chapter, NSDAR c/o Sherri Rima, 12141 FM 1267, Perryton, TX 79070.