Melvin Bresee

(From Parker Mortuary)

Melvin Raymond Bresee, age 85, Joplin, passed away on Tuesday, January 3, 2023 at his home with family at his side.

Melvin was born April 6, 1937 in Iola, Kansas, son of the late Ray Bresee and Stella (Bennett) Bresee. He worked early on with the pipeline in Oklahoma and Texas before working as an auto mechanic in the Joplin area. He enjoyed working on cars, and even worked on and drove dirt track race cars which he did for years. 

 While working on and going fast in cars was a joy, his biggest joy was spending time with family. He was a truck driver for Commercial Metal & Atlas before retiring from 12th Street Scrap Metals in 1997. He loved spending time with his family, and always enjoyed his grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Melvin was preceded in death by his wives, Mary and Donna; son, Raymond Bresee; daughter, Darla Hussong; grandsons, Journey and Zeppelin; brothers, Roy and Gene.

Survivors include his 11 children, Mary, Jason, Darren, Susan, Sharon, Debbie, Nathan, Melvin, Mark, Amy, and Donna; sister, Rosie; 52 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary with a Celebration of Life to be held at a later date.