Melvin Allen Pettyjohn, 81, a lifelong resident of the Fredonia area, died Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2012 at Fredonia Regional Hospital. He was born May 21, 1930 near Elk City, the son of Albert and Goldie Carroll Pettyjohn. Melvin was a graduate of Fredonia High School.

Following high school, Melvin served in the United States Army 1951-1971, retiring after 20 years as a Sergeant First Class. Following his retirement from military service, Melvin returned to Fredonia and began his second career in the maintenance department of Archer Daniels Midland Company, where he retired in 1992 after 20 years of employment.

On Nov. 10, 1973 in Dodge City, Melvin was united in marriage to Diane Lane. She survives, of the home.

Survivors, in addition to his wife, Diane, include two daughters, Cindy Sele, Fredonia, Betty Corley, Mesa, Ariz.; a sister, Opal Shaw, Wichita; a brother, Clarence Pettyjohn, Severy; four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Funeral will be 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 7 at Timmons Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Mt. Pleasant/Belleview Cemetery near Buxton with military honors.

The family will receive friends this evening, 5 to 7 p.m. at Timmons Funeral Home. A memorial has been established in Melvin’s name with the Salvation Army and contributions can be sent to Timmons Funeral Home, PO Box 168, Fredonia, KS, 66736.

Words of condolence for the family may be sent to www.timmonsfuneralhome.com.