Melvin Allen Pettyjohn

Melvin Allen Pettyjohn, 81, a lifelong resident of the Fredonia, Kansas area, died Wednesday, January 4, 2012 at Fredonia Regional Hospital. He was born May 21, 1930 near Elk City, Kansas, the son of Albert and Goldie (Carroll) Pettyjohn. Melvin was a graduate of Fredonia High School. Following high school, Melvin served in the United States Army 1951-1971, retiring after 20 years as a Sergeant First Class. During his military career, he served both stateside and abroad, including tours in Vietnam and Korea, and he was awarded the Bronze Star. Following his retirement from military service, Melvin returned to Fredonia and began his second career in the maintenance department of Archer Daniels Midland Company, where he retired in 1992 after 20 years of employment. On November 10, 1973 in Dodge City, Kansas, Melvin was united in marriage to Diane Lane. She survives at their home. Melvin was a lifetime member of the V.F.W. and the American Legion. Survivors, in addition to his wife, Diane, include: Two daughters: Cindy and Rick Sele of Fredonia, KS Betty Corley of Mesa, AZ One sister: Opal Shaw of Wichita, KS One brother: Clarence and Donna Pettyjohn of Severy, KS One step-brother: David and Doreen Johnson of South Dakota Four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. His parents, Albert and Goldie Pettyjohn; one brother, Milton "Frank" Pettyjohn; and one sister, Marjorie Pettyjohn, preceded Melvin in death. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Saturday, January 7, 2012 at Timmons Funeral Home with Rev. Gene Benefiel of the Buxton Christian Church officiating. Burial will be in the Mt. Pleasant/Belleview Cemetery near Buxton with military honors. The family will receive friends on Friday evening, 5:00 P.M.-7:00 P.M. at Timmons Funeral Home. A memorial has been established in Melvin"s name with the Salvation Army and contributions can be sent to the funeral home. Words of condolence for the family may be left on this website. Timmons Funeral Home, PO Box 168, Fredonia, KS, 66736, is in charge of the arrangements.