Melvin Leroy Farris, 69, of Oak Grove, Mo., passed away at his home on Sept. 10, 2006. He was born on Aug. 19, 1937, in Kansas City, Mo., the son of Orville and Dorothy Farris. His parents preceded him in death.

Melvin was long retired. He served in the United States Air Force. Melvin was an avid stock car race fan and built as well as drove many cars throughout the years, winning many trophies. He shared the love of that sport with his son, Kevin. In recent months, due to his illness, Melvin had been cared for by his loving great-niece, Tina Blaskey, and her husband Jimmy, of Oak Grove.

Melvin is survived by his son, Kevin S. Farris, of Nevada, Mo.; a sister, Bobbi M. Blackburn, of Pinon Hills, Calif.; a niece, Lisa Campbell, of Oak Grove; and a nephew, Wayne Deardorf, of Ventura, Calif.; as well as several great nieces and great-nephews.

Graveside services will be 1 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 23, at Newton Park Cemetery, Nevada.