The Richmond News, Sept. 13, 2024

Mel Vick

Mel Lee Vick, 83, of Millville passed away Tuesday, Sept. 3, 2024, at his home. Mel was born Aug. 15, 1941, in Texas, the son of John Price and Virginia Lee (Moyer) Vick. He was united in marriage to Jeanne Marie Jensen of Kansas City on Dec. 23, 1969. She preceded him in death on Sept. 21, 2011. Survivors include his son, Scott Vick of Millville; two grandchildren, Madison Vick and Hunter Vick; two brothers, Wesley Vick and John Vick, both of Georgia; sister, Ann Vick of Colorado; and sister-inlaw, Sally Vick of Orrick.

In addition to his parents and his wife, Mel was preceded in death by his son, Phillip Vick; and two brothers, Ritchie Vick and J. P. Vick.

Mel was born and raised in the Millville area, where he developed a deep connection to the community. He graduated from Stet High School.

At 17 years old, he began his career with Kenworth Truck Manufacturing in Kansas City. He and Jeanne lived for a short time in Independence while he worked at Kenworth. While working at Kenworth, Mel returned to the Millville area, where his family roots were.

After Kenworth shut down, he owned and operated a trucking company for a while. Later, he worked for Orbseal (now Henkel), eventually retiring from there.

After retirement, Mel helped local farmers during the harvest, hauling grain. He was always there to help anyone who needed it.

Mel’s heart was always in Millville, where he was affectionately known as “the Mayor of Millville.” His care and concern for the community were evident to all who knew him. He was a people person who enjoyed visiting with friends, neighbors and anyone who crossed his path. Mel had a genuine interest in maintaining connections with those he cared about, and he avidly listened to talk radio, keeping himself informed and engaged with the world around him. He will be dearly missed by all his family and friends.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Graveside services were scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 10, in New Hope Cemetery, Hardin, with Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond in charge of the arrangements.

Please share your memories of Mel with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.