Melvin R. Earnest

Melvin R. Earnest, 81, of Wood River, NE, died Wednesday, October 17, 2018. Funeral service will be 10:30 AM Tuesday, October 23, 2018, at First United Methodist Church in Wood River with Reverend Trudy Hanke officiating. Interment will follow with military honors in the Wood River Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4-7 PM on Monday at the church. Memorials are suggested to the family for later designation.



Melvin was born on July 7, 1937, at North Loup, NE, to Guy and Lucille (Callaway) Earnest. He grew up in Ravenna, NE, and received his education and graduated from Ravenna High School. Melvin entered the United States Army on February 2, 1956 and served in Company A 41st Tank Battalion. He was honorably discharged on December 18, 1957.



On June 27, 1965, Melvin was united in marriage to Rita Bilslend at Grand Island, NE. After which the couple lived in Wood River where he was employed by Hindmarsh Chevrolet. Later he worked at Green Bear Frame and Axle, and then became a farmer until retirement.

Melvin was a member of Wood River First United Methodist Church, the Platt-Duetsche, and the c offee club at the Wood River Senior Center. He was an accomplished car owner and mechanic in the Central Nebraska Racing Association. Melvin also enjoyed attending the numerous events and activities of his seven grandchildren.



Survivors include wife: Rita Earnest of Wood River; sons: Brian Earnest, Brad (Amy) Earnest; daughter: Brenda (Justin) Paulk all of Wood River; seven grandchildren: Blake, Audie, and Dylan, Kiernan, Hannah, Caleb, and Lainey; and sisters: Velma Foreman and Thelma Kirkland both of Omaha.



He was preceded in death by his parents; brother: Howard Earnest; and infant daughter: Jery Lynn Earnest.