Melvin (Mel) Dale Gayer

Melvin (Mel) Dale Gayer, beloved husband and father, passed away peacefully on Wednesday Aug. 5, 2020 in Ozark, at the age of 81, with his family by his side.
Gayer was born Dec. 12, 1938, to Richard Eugene Gayer and Ruby Mildred Walker Gayer on a farm just outside Everton. He and his two brothers, Jerry and Wayne, grew up on the farm and went to school in Everton. Gayer was valedictorian of his graduating class of 1956.
He attended Missouri School of Mines and Metallurgy in Rolla. After graduating in 1961 with a Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Engineering, he had a long career working for companies like Schlumberger Well Services, LTV Aerospace, Dayco Corporation, and Pirelli Power Transmission. In 2002 he and Nancy returned to Missouri.
Nancy and Mel attended the University Heights Baptist Church and Searchers Sunday school class.
Gayer is survived by his wife Nancy, his son Jason and wife Tonja of Springfield, son Todd and wife Erin of Oklahoma City, and daughter Amy of Tucson, Ariz., his brother Wayne David and wife Kim of Austin, Texas, brother Jerry Eugene of Weatherford, Okla., his nieces, nephews and in-laws.
Due to COVID-19, the family requests that the visitation be no contact. (No hugging or shaking of hands). Visitation was from 5-7 p.m., Friday, Aug. 7, 2020 Wilson-Griffin Funeral Home, Ash Grove. Funeral services were at 11 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 8, 2020 at University Heights Baptist Church, Springfield.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to University Heights Baptist Church or Hospice Care(mercyhealthfoundation.net/springfield).
For additional information regarding services or donations go to wilsongriffin.com.