Melvin A. Blochlinger, age 80, of Concordia, Kansas, died at Cloud County Health Center on December 30, 2009.

Melvin was born in Aurora Kansas on February 28, 1929 to John and Mary Blochlinger. Melvin served for his country in the National Guard and in the United States Army. He was united in marriage to Mary Lewis on June 28, 1950.

He was preceded in death by his parents, 6 brothers and 4 sisters, and twin infant sons, James and Stephen. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Mary, his children; Ronald and wife Gloria, Lana Thompson and husband Randy "Doc", Karen Nutsch and husband Robert, Robert Blochlinger, Dennis and wife Kristen, Tony and wife Robin, Laura Muhlenforth and husband Arthur, Deanna Kymer and husband Jeff; his sister Louise Gunter; 19 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.

Melvin was a member of the O.L.P.H. church, the V.F.W., the American Legion, the Moose club, and the Army National Guard.

Melvin was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and friend to all. He will be greatly missed.

A celebration of life mass was held Saturday, January 2, 2010, at 10:00 a.m., at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, Concordia, with Reverend Barry Brinkman officiating. Interment was in the St. Concordia Cemetery, Concordia, Kansas with Military Honors by American Legion Pos t#76 & VFW Post #588. The family celebrated a community vigil service on Friday, January 01, 2010, at 6:30 p.m., at Chaput-Buoy Funeral Home, Concordia, Kansas. The family suggests memorials to Helping Hands, or Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, Concordia, Kansas. Chaput-Buoy Funeral Home, Concordia, Kansas, was in charge of arrangements.