Melville Welch Strong

Mel was born in Tarkio, MO to Dr. John Gordon and Nettie Belle Strong. He graduated from Northwest Missouri State University where he met and married his wife Marjorie of more than 66 years. Upon graduation, he moved to Kansas City where he worked a short time for the Gas Service Company before spending a long career as a paper salesman for Midwestern Paper Company. Mel served in both the Army and Navy during the Korean War. He also served his community with countless years volunteering for food pantries, ringing bells for the Salvation Army, and delivering meals to seniors for Meals on Wheels to name a few. As one of the founding members, he volunteered and served in many capacities at North Cross United Methodist Church. Mel was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Helen Reidinger; daughter, Tammy Kilbane and grandson, Dominick Musacchio.

He is survived by his wife, Marjorie; brother-in-law, Herbert Lewis of Clinton MS; his children, Bryce (Cathy) Strong of Gladstone, MO and Sirena Barlow of Overland Park, KS; six grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.

Visitation at North Cross United Methodist Church on Sun., Oct. 28th 6pm - 8pm. Funeral service Mon., Oct. 29th 10:00am at North Cross United Methodist Church; burial with military honors will follow at White Chapel Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to North Cross United Methodist Church, 1321 NE Vivion Rd., Kansas City, MO 64118