Melvin Wayne Nokes

Melvin Wayne Nokes died peacefully on Saturday, April 20, 2013, at Hillcrest Nursing Home in McCook. He was 90 years old.

Mel was born in Danbury, Nebraska, on September 22, 1922, to parents Earl L. and Notie (Thomas) Nokes. After graduating from Danbury High School, he joined the U. S. Navy. He served during World War II in the Pacific Theater as a Sonarman 2nd Class. On June 23, 1945 he was united in marriage to Nada Louise Boyer. To this union two sons were born.

Mel was honorably discharged from the Navy on October 24, 1945. After returning from the war, he worked at the Danbury Equity until he became General Manager of the Wallace County Co-op Equity Exchange in Sharon Springs, Kansas, in September, 1949. Mel retired in 1978 after 29 years of service, and then continued in related roles consulting for Farmland Industries. In 1991, Mel moved back to his home, McCook, Nebraska, where he and Nada, enjoyed over 20 years in the community.

Mel was dedicated to the farmers and ranchers of Wallace County. He grew the Wallace County, Kansas, Co-op from a 2-man operation to a workforce of about 75. He was recognized as Farmland Industries Manager of the Year in 1971. Mel was a loving husband and father, a thoughtful leader, an outstanding business manager, and a supporter of youth. He loved the outdoors, fishing, nurturing and development of people, and card games.

Mel was preceded in death by his loving wife of 67 years, Nada Nokes, on March 5, 2013; parents, Earl and Notie Nokes; brother, Lloyd Nokes; and his sister, Lillian Newberry.

Mel is survived by his sons Ray Nokes, and wife, Pam, of McCook and Jim Nokes and wife, Glennis, of Kingwood, TX; seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; brother, Harold Nokes of Lincoln; numerous family and friends.