Melvin J. Stoecklein, 80, of Independence, MO, passed away Monday, December 17th, 2012. Visitation will be from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Thursday December 20, 2012 at Carson-Speaks Chapel. Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday 10:00 a.m. at St. Ann's Catholic Church 10113 W Lexington Ave. in Independence.
Melvin was born February 25, 1932 on a farm in Bazine, KS to Martin and Anastasia "Anna" (Depperschmidt) Stoecklein. He was one of 17 children. At age 9 he started working the family farm. He later earned his GED. Melvin served in the Air Force from 1951-55. In 1959 he married his love Frances VanMaele; together they raised 5 children. He worked for 30 years for General Motors Leeds Plant on the line and as an automotive computer repair technician. He retired September 1st, 1987. Afterwards, he spent much of his time with friends and doing wood working and tinkering with cars. He crafted many wooden toys for his grandchildren and furniture for his wife. Melvin was a supporter of the Knights of Columbus #3430, a member of the United Auto Workers union #93, and above all a faithful Catholic of St. Ann's Parish in Independence. His family describes him as inventive, creative, kind and very patient and humble. "He is the person we all strive to be."
Melvin is survived by his wife Frances Stoecklein of the home; daughter, Shelley Oldham and husband Scott and their children, Donovan and Cody, of Kansas City, KS; daughter Ellene Laughlin and her late husband Dennis and their children Kellan, Kendyl, Tristan, and Gentry of Independence, MO; son Brian Stoecklein and his children Sydni and Kahner of Lee's Summit, MO; son, Steve Stoecklein and his wife Lynne of Parker, CO; son, Scott Stoecklein and wife Lynn and their children, Max and Sam of Kansas City, MO; siblings, Cleo and husband Al Werth of Hutchinson, KS; Leonard and wife Clarice of Ness City, KS; Jim Stoecklein and wife Nita of Hutchinson, KS; Mary Ann Pavlu of Topeka, KS; Sister Darlene Stoecklein of El Paso, TX; Betty and husband Julius Gassman of Manhattan, KS; Donna and husband Paul Werth of Great Bend, KS; Don Stoecklein and wife Beth of Spring Hill, KS; Marty Stoecklein and wife Judy of Eufaula, OK. He was preceded in death by 7 siblings and his parents. In lieu of flowers the family encourages contributions to Susan G Komen Breast Cancer Foundation; PO Box 413247, Kansas City, MO in his name.