Mel was born on September 22, 1931, in Garden City, Kansas. He received his BS degree from Kansas State University, MA from the University of Colorado, and Ed D from University of Kansas. His calling was educating and counseling students -- his first three years in the Kansas City, Missouri School District followed by 34 years in the Shawnee Mission School District. In retirement he worked part time for Dignity Memorial Funeral Homes.
Mel was a member of Sigma Chi Fraternity and president of Phi Delta Kappa honorary fraternity. He served as a board member of ARCare and Main Street Credit Union, and served in the Army during the Korean War. He was a 58-year member of the Village Presbyterian Church serving as a Deacon and Elder. Mel`s passions were woodworking, travel, K-State and going to garage sales.
Mel was outgoing and brought laughter to every get together. This decreased as he fought a courageous battle with Parkinson`s. His family meant the world to him. He is survived by his wife, Carol, of 64 years, three sons; Steve of Laguna Hills, CA, Stuart of Olathe, KS and Scott (Laura) of Coppell, TX. The joy of his life was his grandchildren Brooke, Jake, Mitch and Ashley. Two brothers; Dick Sauer of Redondo Beach, CA and Ed Sauer of Colorado Springs, CO, also, survive.
A celebration of Mel`s life will be held Friday, February 22, at 4:00 pm at the Village Presbyterian Church. Memorial contributions may be made to the Parkinson`s Foundation Heartland, 8900 State Line Road, Leawood, Kansas 66206 or the Village Presbyterian Church, 6641 Mission Road, Prairie Village Kansas 66208.
