Melvin Lee Newell

Melvin Lee Newell, a beloved husband, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away on September 23, 2023, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He was born on February 9, 1940, in Great Bend, Kansas, to his loving parents Don and Edna Newell (nee. Buschmann). Melvin was raised in Oklahoma City alongside his brothers Larry and Gary Newell.

Melvin was a graduate of John Marshall High School - OKC Class of 1958. During his high school years, Melvin showcased his athletic talents as a three-year letterman for the John Marshall Football squad and track & field team. His dedication to these sports left an indelible mark on his alma mater. Melvin's exceptional skills caught the attention of the University of Tulsa, where he was awarded a full football scholarship.

After completing his education, Melvin pursued his passion for automobiles by becoming a master mechanic at Scott Chevrolet - OKC and Smicklas Chevrolet - OKC. His expertise in the field earned him a reputation as an outstanding mechanic among colleagues and customers alike.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Melvin was an outdoorsman at heart. He found great joy in hunting and fishing, often retreating to the family cabin in Colorado to immerse himself in nature's beauty. He indulged in his love for cars by building his own 1932 Ford hot-rod—an impressive testament to his mechanical skill.

Melvin was an active member of the Tornadoes Car Club and Street Rod Association, forging lifelong friendships with fellow automobile enthusiasts who shared his passion. Every week without fail, Melvin looked forward to Friday Coffee & Donuts with the boys at Vintage Gardens.

Another noteworthy aspect of Melvin's life was his fascination with model railroads. He was an avid enthusiast, dedicating time and effort to create intricate miniature worlds that brought joy to both himself and those who had the pleasure of witnessing his craftsmanship.

He was deeply devoted to his wife of sixty-three years, Barbara Katherine Newell (nee. Sherman). He is also survived by his brother-in-law Robert Sherman of Edmond, OK, and brother-in-law M. Kent Sherman and wife Kathy of Chandler, OK. Melvin's nieces, Victoria Skudneski (nee Goodnight) and husband Scott of Denver, CO; Kathy Caviness (nee Sherman) and husband Kelly of Arcadia OK; DeDe Pollock (nee. Sherman) and Robert of Ocean City, NJ; Stacey Mauch (nee Sherman) and husband Charley of Chandler, OK will forever cherish their memories together. Additionally, he leaves behind nephews Ross Sherman of Edmond, OK; Darrin Sherman of Chandler, OK; Lance Newell and wife Christy of Piedmont. Melvin's kind heart touched the lives of many great-nieces and nephews who adored their loving uncle. 

Melvin Lee Newell will be missed dearly by all who had the privilege to know him. Alongside his parents Don and Edna Newell and brothers Larry and Gary Newell, Melvin is preceded in death by his great-nephew Kristopher Corbin "Corby" Caviness and sister-in-law June Sherman wife of Robert Sherman.

A funeral service to celebrate the life of Melvin will be held on October 7, 2023, at the May Ave - Smith & Kernke Funeral Homes & Crematory in Oklahoma City. The service will begin at 10:00 a.m. Following the service the family would like to invite all friends to stay for a reception at Smith and Kernke.