Melvin Allen Leistico

In 1959, Mel graduated from Worthington High School, and went on to graduate from Worthington Community College in 1961. 0n August 8, 1961, Mel joined the Air Force and served until August 6, 1965 - Airman First Class.

After the military, Mel joined Trans World Airlines in Kansas City, Missouri in October 1966 and retired 33 years later in October 1999. He started his career as a Mechanic and retired as an Engineer. Working at TWA fulfilled his love of research and travel.

On May 17, 1975, Mel married the love of his life, Mildred F. (Goossen) Leistico and adopted her son, Sean Duane in 1977.

Mel learned his woodworking skills at the tutelage of his father. He did many wood projects through the years. While living in Spokane, Washington, Mel was able to fulfill his dream of building his own woodworking shop in 2001 and used many of the same tools his father had used in his shop.

Mel’s love of walking led him to compete in the Bloomsday Races in Spokane, Washington from 2001-2013. After attending some family reunions, Mel developed a passion for Genealogy-Ancestry. He used this to keep track of his many relations.

Mel, age 81, departed this life for his heavenly forever home at 1:30 pm, Wednesday, April 26, 2023, after his battle with Alzheimer’s.

He is preceded in death by his father, Everett and mother, Sophia (Crippen Schackel) Leistico; step-mother, Virginia (Chase) Leistico; brothers, Dudley Crippen, Dale, and Robert Leistico; and sister, Mary (Crippen) Efner.

Mel is survived by his wife, Millie Leistico; his son, Sean Duane Leistico and wife Elaine; grandson, Brandon and wife Natasha; great grandchildren, August and Mila; granddaughter, Kyrie; grandsons, Jack, Josiah and Noah; sisters, Carol Waggoner, Geraldine Pohlman, and Marilyn Moe; brother, Dewayne Leistico; and many in-laws, nephews, nieces, and cousins.

The Celebration of Mel’s Life will be held Saturday, May 13, 2023 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Newcomer's White Chapel Funeral Home, 6600 NE Antioch Rd, Gladstone, MO 64119, followed by a memorial service at 2PM.

The Military Funeral will take place at Leavenworth National Cemetery at 11:00 AM on Monday, May 15, 2023.

Memorial donations may be made to Christ For Me, Inc., PO Box 1694, Tahlequah, OK 74464.