Melvin Twenter

Life Reflection: In Loving Memory of Melvin Leonard Twenter
Sunrise: August 8, 1933
Sunset: December 9, 2024
Melvin L. Twenter, 91, of Moberly, Missouri, passed away, Monday morning at University Hospital in Columbia.
Melvin was born, August 8, 1933, in Boonville, Missouri, the son of the late Herbert and Clara (Knedgen) Twenter. He was one of six siblings, growing up with five brothers and one sister in Pilot Grove, Missouri.
After graduating from high school, Melvin served in the U.S. Army, prior to receiving a Honorable Discharge. Following his service, he married Ada Bernice Wesselman, November 28, 1959, at St. Martin's Catholic Church in Pilot Grove.
Melvin and Ada purchased a farm south of Moberly, where Melvin raised crops and livestock. He particularly favored Angus cattle and preferred his Allis Chalmers machinery. Along with his cattle, he occasionally had hogs, sheep, ducks, horses, and many beloved dogs, the first being named Brownie. His most recent companions were Jackson and Bubbles, which he enjoyed very much.
A member of St. Pius X Catholic Church, Melvin drove a school bus for the St. Pius X School for 13 years. He was well-liked by students who he handed out candy bars to every year at Christmas. Many parents fondly remarked that they could "set their clocks" by his timely route. Melvin also drove a coal truck for several years. Melvin served on the Renick School Board; he was a member of the Knights of Columbus, and involved with his children's 4-H cattle projects.
Melvin and Ada had four children. Their son, Jeff, who married Mina Johnson, tragically lost his life in a car accident caused by a drunk driver on September 2, 1995. In Jeff's memory, Melvin and Ada established a scholarship for Moberly Area Community College's Law Enforcement Training program. Melvin also made regular donations to Father Flanagan's Boys Town, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and St. Pius X Church.
A devout Catholic, Melvin prayed the rosary every night. He was known for his caring nature and his willingness to help others. He enjoyed spending time with family, friends, and neighbors. He regularly visited his siblings and stayed connected with nieces, nephews, and extended family. Melvin especially cherished his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, frequently reminding them of the things they did that made him laugh. He enjoyed fishing with his grandchildren, watching the Kansas City Chiefs and kept up with the St. Louis Cardinals. He had the opportunity to attend several games of both teams. Melvin never missed a kid's birthday and always made sure he sent Christmas gifts to all his children and grandchildren. He enjoyed sending Christmas cards to friends and neighbors and made regular phone calls to loved ones.
Surviving are three children: son Mark Twenter and wife Pamela of Independence; daughter Brenda Snodgrass with Ken Schutte of Columbia; and son Kevin Twenter and wife Amber of Centralia; 10 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; and one brother, Leo Twenter and wife Barbara.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Ada, August 10, 2002; his son, Jeffrey Alan; his parents; his sister, Bernice; and his brothers, Elmer, Maurice, and Clyde Twenter.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials to Father Flanagan's Boys Town, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and St. Pius X Church.
Words of comfort and support were shared with the family at a visitation held in the Cater Funeral Home Chapel, followed by a prayer service. A Mass of Christian Burial was held at the St. Pius X Catholic Church. Committal prayer, Military Honors, and burial took place at St. Mary's Cemetery.
Acknowledgment
The family of Melvin Twenter would like to express our sincere gratitude for the many acts of kindness shown during our time of sorrow. Your support has been greatly appreciated.