Melvin Kirk Jones,

Melvin Kirk Jones, Sr. 81, Topeka, passed away Thurs. July 26, 2007 at Midland Hospice. Melvin was born Jan. 21, 1926 in Havensville KS the son of Lyman and Olive Beach Jones. He served his country in the US Marine Corp during WWII, in the South Pacific Theater. On Aug. 3, 1950, he and Regina A. Schlegel were married in Manhattan. She preceded him in death in 1998. On Nov. 16, 2001, Melvin and Inez Smith were married in Topeka. Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Inez; children, Lee Ann Spade, Norman OK, Victoria Hasenkamp (Louis), Tecumseh, M. Kirk Jones, Jr. (Donna), Topeka, Michael K. Jones (Camille), Valley Falls, Melonie Schmidtlein (Tony), Topeka; his mother, Olive Vorse, Topeka; step-brother, John M. Vorse; step-children, Linda Davis (Robert), Matthew Smith (Rechell) and Jodi Leftwich (Jack), all of Topeka; 15 grandchildren; 8 step-grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren and 9 step-great-grandchildren. Melvin was a dedicated and loving husband, father, grandfather and friend. Melvin worked for McElroys for over 30 years and retired from the VA. He was recognized for 50 years of refrigeration service. He served for many years with the Boy Scouts of America. Melvin was a member of the Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus, James W. Gibbons Assembly and was a past Grand Knight, Council No. 8059. He was a member of Mater Dei (Holy Name) Parish where he was chairman of the Maintenance Committee and volunteered his time and talent generously for many years. Melvin was a member of the Loyal Order of the Moose Lodge #555, VFW #1650, American Legion Post #1 and Plumbers and Pipefitters Local Union 165. Family will greet friends from 4 to 7 p.m. Sun. at Mater Dei Holy Name Church, 1114 SW 10th St, where a parish rosary will be prayed at 5 p.m. A Knights of Columbus 4th Degree Chalice ceremony will be at 5:30 followed by a Knights of Columbus rosary. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Mon. at the Church. Burial will follow in Mt. Calvary Cemetery with military honors. Memorial contributions are suggested to Mater Dei Parish or the charity of the donor’s choice.

Melvin Kirk Jones,

January 1, 1753 - July 29, 2007