Click Here to Listen LIVE to

Melvin Dee Berry, 100

Melvin Dee Berry, 100, of Hunter, Kansas, passed away peacefully on March 27th 2026, leaving behind a century-long legacy of service, devotion, and deep family roots.

Born on September 18, 1925, in the very room where he would sleep until his final days, Melvin lived his entire life in the home on 160 acres originally homesteaded by his maternal grandparents in 1878. He had a natural understanding of the land, with a sharp sense of timing and care that guided him in knowing exactly what needed to be done and when in crop production. A lifelong steward of that land and its history, he embodied the enduring spirit of family, tradition, and hard work.

He graduated as salutatorian of Hunter High School in 1944 before proudly serving his country as a PFC Rifleman in the 137th Regiment of the 35th Infantry Division during World War II in France, Belgium, Holland and Germany. After the Germans surrendered, Melvin was transferred to the 5th infantry Division band playing the coronet. While in Germany he had the privilege of performing for General Eisenhower during his inspection of the troops. His military service remained one of the great honors of his life. He was recognized as one of "Ike's Soldiers" during Eisenhower's 80th D-Day commemoration in 2024 and was again honored as Grand Marshal of the Beloit, Kansas Veterans Day Parade in 2025. Among his most meaningful experiences was participating in the Honor Flight program, traveling to Washington, D.C. alongside fellow veterans and having the opportunity to visit Arlington National Cemetery, where his sister, Ilene Allen, is laid to rest for her service in the United States Navy.

On December 23, 1948, he married the love of his life, Iva Mae Thomas, at Hunter Methodist Church. Together they built a life rooted in love, faith, and family, sharing 59 years of marriage until her passing in 2008. They lovingly raised their three children: Ron, Carol, and Ken.

A dedicated and hardworking man, Melvin farmed for most of his life in Lincoln County. He also served as manager of the Hunter CO-OP filling station and delivered bulk fuel to the community for 28 years. Though he retired from the CO-OP at the age of 62, his commitment to farming never faded-he continued working the land until the age of 93. He was an active member of the Hunter Lions Club for over 50 years. He was a lifelong member of the Hunter American Legion Post 77 until it closed and then became a member of Sylvan Grove Post 359. He was a proud lifetime member of VFW Post 6242 in Beloit, KS.

Beyond his work, he was a down-to-earth man with deep faith who embraced life with quiet joy and humility. He loved square dancing, playing cards, and hunting and fishing with family. He and Iva Mae created lasting memories on family trips to Colorado, and in later years he enjoyed traveling to Hawaii, Jamaica, and Mexico.

He is survived by his children, Ron (Hunter, Ks) and Ken (Eskridge, Ks); Granddaughter Traci Raney (Robb) (Overland Park, Ks), and great-granddaughters Brynn and Audrey. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Iva Mae and daughter Carol (Konold).

In a life that spanned a full century, Melvin remained steadfast, anchored in the same home, devoted to the same land, and deeply committed to his family and country. His life stands as a testament to resilience, loyalty, and love. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Funeral services for Melvin will be held at 10:30 AM on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at Grace Chapel Hunter Methodist Church with refreshments being served afterwards at the Hunter Community Center. A visitation with family present will take place from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM prior to the service at the church. A public visitation, without family present, will be held from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at Roberts Family Funeral Service in Beloit.

Memorials may be given to the Hunter Community Center or VFW Post 6242. Contributions may be sent in care of Roberts Family Funeral Service, 910 N. Campbell Ave., Beloit, KS 67420.

Other Obituaries

Beloit, KS 67420, USA