Maurice Wayne Meline

Maurice Wayne Meline, 80, son of Robert and Anna Meline, loving husband of Joyce, died

on January 21.

Maurice was born in Kearney, Nebraska on August 24, 1934. He spent his younger years on the farm in Kearney. He would later meet his future wife, Joyce, in the first grade. They were together throughout their school years.

Maurice excelled in all sports in high school where he once out-scored a whole basketball team: 49-34!

He was also the state champion in the high hurdles at Odessa High School in Odessa, Nebraska.

Maurice and Joyce graduated at the young age of 16 and were married September 29, 1951.

Maurice attended Kearney State Teachers college, taking business courses.

In 1955 they moved to Portland, Oregon for Maurice’s education. While in Portland, Maurice was offered his first job as a telegrapher with the SP & S railroad in Washtucna. Maurice took the job and moved his young family to this small community.

He built the family home in Washtucna, where he and Joyce would live for the next 25 years and raise their family of five children: Steve, Debi, Rob, Mike and Mark.

While in Washtucna, he and Joyce bought the local Trustworthy Hardware store. Maurice became a Whirlpool repairman and many of the locals have fond memories of Maurice repairing appliances and many times payment was made with a

pie or preserves!

During his career with SP & S (which later became Burlington Northern Santa Fe), Maurice was offered numerous promotions. Once the children were raised, he and Joyce moved many times over the next several years for work.

After retiring at age 59, Mo and Jo (as they would become known!) became world travelers.

They visited every state capital and all the continents. As devout Christians, they felt called to the “Mobile Missionary Assistant Program Organization” (MMAPS).

They hooked up their fifth wheel and spent the next 16 years traveling around the U.S. working with churches, Youth Camps, and other non-profit organizations. Mo could handle a mean hammer!

Maurice is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Joyce; Children: Steve (Kathy); Debi (Ernie); Mike (Lori); Mark (Danette); and daughter-in-law Kim Meline.

He was preceded in death by his son Rob.

He is also survived by 17 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: MMAPS (PO BOX 725 Calimesa, CA 92320) or the charity of your choice. A family service will be held at a later date in Washtucna.

Maurice will be greatly missed by all who knew him.