Melba R. Wheeler, 94 years of age, of Concordia, passed away Thursday, December 20, 2012 at Sunset Nursing Home in Concordia. Melba was born on March 19, 1918 on the family farm near Asherville to Ben and Pearl (Kiser) Smith. Melba attended country schools. She married Arthur J. Wheeler on Sept. 9, 1942 in Yuma , Arizona and they spent over 64 wonderful years together before he preceded her on Nov. 7, 2006. Melba worked various jobs before becoming the head cook at the Concordia High School until her retirement.

Melba is survived by her daughter, Ruth Lewellyn, of Concordia; sons, Ron Wheeler and wife Arlene of Spokane, Washington, Mel Wheeler and wife Jackie of Concordia; brother, Arnold Smith of Shelton, Washington; 9 grandchildren; 19 great grandchildren & 1 great great grandchild. She was preceded in death by her husband, Arthur; parents; 2 sisters, 8 brothers; a son in law, and a great grandson.

Funeral services will be at 2:00 PM on Saturday, December 22, 2012 at Chaput-Buoy Funeral Home in Concordia with Stanley Morrison officiating. Burial will follow the services at Pleasant Hill Cemetery , Concordia. Visitation will be from 11 AM to 5 PM Friday, December 21, 2012 at Chaput-Buoy Funeral Home in Concordia. The family suggests memorials to the Melba Wheeler Memorial Fund in care of the funeral home.