Mel was born on February 1, 1942 and passed away in his home at the Lake of the  Ozarks on July 28, 2022, where he was surrounded by the love of his family.

Mel was born and raised in Independence, MO and graduated from William Chrisman High School in 1960. After graduation, he joined the United States Marine Corp. Mel was a life-time member of the VFW Post 1000 where he also served as Commander from 1985 -1986. Mel was self-employed and owned Independence RV on 24 Highway where he retired after 25 years. He proudly worked with his Dad until his retirement.

Mel was proceeded in death by his parents Roy and Olive Lewis, his brother Phillip Lewis and two sons, Richard “Ricky” Lewis and Michael “Micky” Lewis. Mel leaves behind Sandy Lewis, his spouse of 48 years, bonus children Sherrie Woods, Scott Woods (Debbie Cunningham) and Sheila Adams, his brother Delbert Lewis, sister Marilynn Holsworth and his sister-in-law Evelyn Lewis, all of Independence, MO. Mel has 10 grandchildren and 15 greatgrandchildren, one niece and three nephews. Services will be held on August 21, 2022 at the VFW Post 1000 located at 1002 Hwy 24, Independence, MO 64050, with Marine Color Guard presentation from 2:00 to 2:30 and a celebration of life to follow in the VFW Hall. Please join us in celebrating Mel’s 80 years of a fun-filled life, sharing in memories, food and drinks. Mel’s family request is that in lieu of flowers, that donations be made to the family to contribute to final