Melvin "Mel" Darrell Padgett, age 79, of Manhattan passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, May 22, 2022 surrounded by family. He was born on November 26,1942 in Manhattan, the son of Robert L. and Gladys C. (Iseman) Padgett. He graduated from Manhattan High School and proudly called the Flint Hills "home." On June 30, 1963 he married Nancy L. Tiemeyer in Clifton, Kansas. In June, Mel and Nancy would have celebrated their 59th wedding anniversary.
Mel was a journeyman meat cutter for several years and his art moved to masonry work during his later working years. Mel was a hard working man, loving father, husband and beloved grandpa. He was an avid outdoorsman, with a love of wildlife and hunting, fishing and trapping. He taught hundreds of hunter safety classes and also served as the President of the Kansas Hunter Safety Association in the late 1970's. Melvin loved to mentor others. He always took the time to teach anyone who had an interest in these areas no matter what their age or background. Later in life he enjoyed bird watching.
In addition to his wife Nancy, he is survived by two children and their families. Daughter, Michele West and husband Mike of Wichita and their three adult children Jordan, Alex and Hannah. Also survived by son, Craig Padgett and wife Melody of Manhattan and their two adult children Drew and Ashton. Melvin is also survived by one brother William "Bill" Padgett and one sister Catherine Carlisle. He was preceded in death by his parents; his step-father, Martin Harper; two brothers, Robert "Bobby" and Grover "LeRoy" Padgett and one sister, Bonnie Kading.
A memorial may be made to the Interim Hospice of Manhattan or KSDS Assistance Dogs, Inc. and left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home. A private graveside service will be held at a later date.