Obituary of Gary Lee Melander

Gary Lee “Charlie” Melander, 83, of Assaria, KS died Saturday, May 21, 2022. Charlie was the son of Emmet P. and Opal (Major) Melander and was born in Salina on March 30, 1939. He is survived by his wife: Kathy; son: Brent Melander (Melanie) of Assaria, KS; daughter: Mandy Stephenson (Casey) of Assaria, KS; brother: Olaf Melander (Sara Jo) of Leawood, KS; sister: Patricia Melander of Assaria, KS; grandchildren: Cody Melander (Kaleigh), Carley Melander, Katie Stephenson, and Morgan Stephenson; great grandchildren: Sadie and Jack Melander; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and extended family members and special friends, Steve Caselman and Sam Siegrist. Charlie was preceded in death by his parents. Charlie graduated from Assaria High School in 1957 and Wichita State University. Charlie married Kathy McKim on June 2, 1973 in Salina, KS. He taught American History at Salina High School and Salina Central High School for 13 years. He was a supervisor for the Saline County Conservation District, served on the Saline County Planning and Zoning Commission and was a member of the Board of Education for Southeast of Saline. Charlie was a lifelong farmer in Saline County. He was a steward of the land, believing it’s our duty to conserve and protect our natural resources for future generations. He spent many years working with The Land Institute on furthering sustainable agriculture. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, but family time was his favorite. He enjoyed harvest and meals served in the field from the “chuck wagon”. The family has enjoyed many evenings at the campground that Charlie discovered by the river, sharing stories and roasting marsh mellows. Christmas was a special time at the Melander’s, Santa always made an appearance and a meal with all the Swedish family favorites. Cremation has been selected. Memorial services will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, May 26th at Assaria Lutheran Church, 124 W 1st St, Assaria, KS with Pastor Dean Apel officiating. The family would especially like to thank the staff at Riverview Estates for their compassionate care and support. Memorial contributions may be made to The Land Institute, Salina or Riverview Estates, Marquette. Memorials may be sent in care of Crick-Christians Funeral Home, 103 N. Washington, Lindsborg, KS 67456.