Melvin J. Dreher, 91, passed away April 13, 2024, at Medicalodges of Great Bend, Kan. He was born on Nov. 9, 1932, in Liebenthal, Kan., to Anton and Lucina (Sander) Dreher. On June 3, 1957, he married Mildred Wondra in Liebenthal, Kan.; she passed on June 27, 1985. Melvin then married Eunice (Brack) Basye on Nov. 14, 1987 in Great Bend.

A long-time resident of Great Bend, Melvin was a self-employed welder, owning Mel’s Welding Service. He proudly served in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. Melvin was a member of Prince of Peace Parish, Knights of Columbus, Sunflower Polka Club, Fraternal Order of Eagles, Ambucs, American Legion Post #180, Great Bend Senior Center, and Whatchamacallit Polka Band. He was a people person – having colorful conversations with anyone he met. Melvin also enjoyed playing the accordion, traveling, dancing, and taking drives.

Survivors include his wife; two sons, Wayne Dreher of Great Bend, and Dean Dreher of Wichita; two daughters, Diane Dreher of Great Bend, and Debra Dreher of Wichita; and sister, Irene Helms of Mulvane. He was preceded in death by his first wife; infant children, Karen, Geralyn, and Kevin Dreher; three brothers, Alvin, Edward, and Gary Dreher; and sister, Albina Johnson.

Visitation will take place from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, April 18, 2024, with Vigil including Knights of Columbus rosary at 7 p.m., all at Bryant Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 10:30 a.m. Friday, April 19, 2024, at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, with Father Prakash Kola presiding. Interment will follow at Great Bend Cemetery, with military honors presented by Ft. Riley Honor Guard. In lieu of flowers, memorials have been designated to the D.A.V., Alzheimer’s Association or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, all in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530. Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net.

Funeral arrangements provided by

Bryant Funeral Home

‘1425 Patton Road

Great Bend, KS  67530

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, April 16, 2024