December 27, 1935 - February 16, 2025
Melvin Ervin "Mel" Baldwin, age 89, of Spring Hill, Kansas, formerly of Osawatomie, Kansas, passed peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, February 16, 2025, at Colonial Oak Senior Living in Spring Hill.
Mel was born in Spencer, Iowa, to Melvin O. and Alta Marie (Franklin) Baldwin. He attended school in Iowa before pursuing a diverse career path that spanned multiple fields. In his early years, he worked as a restaurant cook, ranch hand, insurance salesman, Manor Bread sales representative, and deputy sheriff.
Mel's passion for helping others led him to further his education. He earned a bachelor's degree from Arizona State University in 1966, followed by a master's degree from the University of Kansas. He dedicated most of his professional life to social work, serving at both Arizona State Hospital and Osawatomie State Hospital.
In his personal life, Mel married Deana Birchard, and together they welcomed two sons, Mark in 1958 and Mike in 1959. Their marriage ended in 1966.
Then in December 1967, he married Judy Conklin, with whom he shared 57 wonderful years. The couple built their life together in the Phoenix area before moving to the countryside near Osawatomie, where they enjoyed the serenity of farm life until selling their acreage in 2022.
Mel enjoyed hunting, fishing and playing music on his guitar. His favorite thing was spending time with this grandchildren. He took them on tractor and motorcycle rides and then camped in the backyard with them.
He was preceded in death by his son Mike, his parents, and his brother John.
Survivors include his wife Judy of Paola, son Mark of Spring Hill, KS, and sister Evelyn of Mesa, AZ. He is also survived by his grandchildren and extended family.
Full obituary will follow when available.
(Published in the Linn County Journal on February 23, 2025.)
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