"I have many memories of my uncle Kenny. When we lived in Burlington, I remember going on a visit to the Mellinger farm. So much fun, probably the only farm I?ve ever been on. One special memory I have is from my long ago college days. I was on the UW Stevens Point football team. We usually played on Saturday evenings. I looked up in the stands and there was Kenny, sitting alongside my Dad. What an effort to travel to Wisconsin for a small college football game on a Saturday night! Pretty impressive for me as his nephew. May You all have fond memories. Steve Mason "
In loving memory of
Kenneth Mellinger
September 8, 1931 - October 29, 2019
Kenneth Mellinger, 88 of Mediapolis, formerly of West Burlington died Tuesday October 29, 2019 at his home.
Born September 8, 1931 in Burlington, IA, he was the son of Frank and Gladys (Bell) Mellinger. In 1951 he married Mary R. Mason. He later married Lynda L. Hand in 1991.
He was a 1948 graduate of Burlington High School. He was employed at Thomas Motor Co. in Burlington for 10 years, Benner Aldi warehouse in West Burlington for 22 years and West Burlington School District 14 years until his retirement in 1994.
He was a United States Army veteran, 1952-1954. He was stationed in Germany with the 40th Tank Bn., 4th Inf. Div. He was a lifetime member of VFW Post 10102.
He was a member of Divine Mercy Parish - St. Mary & Patrick Catholic Church, West Burlington.
He liked to read, especially W.W. II history. He was a sports fan, and lifelong fan of the Chicago Cubs and Iowa Hawkeyes. He collected scale model cars and trucks, and enjoyed going to auctions. For a number of years he enjoyed attending his 40th Tank Bn. Annual reunion in Paducah, KY.
Survivors include his wife Lynda; his children, Mary Kay (Gary) Smith of New London, Jackie Lynn (Robert) McClellon of Burlington, and Sarah Marie (Brent) Maxwell of Burlington; five step-children, Kenneth Vickers of Hamilton, IL, Kevin Vickers of Mediapolis, Kaylen (Kim) Vickers of Elvaston, IL, Heath (Karen) Hand of Mediapolis, and Wrema (Matt) Strawser of North Liberty; one sister, Joyce (George) Morris of Tulsa, OK; one brother, Tom (Loretta)Mellinger of Washington; several grandchildren; step-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister.
As per his request there will be no funeral or family visitation. Cremation has been entrusted to Lunning Chapel. Graveside service will be 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 6th in Keokuk National Cemetery with full military rites conducted by the Keokuk American Legion with Father Dan Dorau officiating.
A memorial for Hope Haven has been established.
Lunning Chapel is in charge of arrangements.
Tributes
"Grandpa Kenny always made sure to be part of our lives. Growing up he always came and supported us in our school activities. He would even travel long distances to be there for important life moments such as college graduation and our weddings. He would remember the things we were interested in and made sure to ask us about those things when he would see us. Not one of our birthdays would go by where we wouldn't get a card from him, even my 3 kids, his great-grand children, would look forward to their cards and gifts from Grandpa Kenny. Grandpa you will be missed! Thank you for loving us so much!"
"Kay, Jackie and Sarah I have such fond memories of your dad. Our families were so close when we were growing up. So sad to hear of his passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you all!! Love you guys ??????????"
"So sad to hear of Kenny's passing. Our families have been lifelong friends as we lived a block away from each other growing up and our families attended school, church and social activities together. When I was 16 my Dad passed away. Kenny was there for me and for the next couple years included me in sporting events, travel and other activities as a father figure. I will never forget that...ever. He will truly be missed by me and our family but great memories will be there forever. Thanks Kenny for all you did. Rest in peace. "