Ralph Melvin "Mel" Clinkingbeard

Ralph Melvin "Mel" Clinkingbeard, 84, of Mokane, passed away Monday, February 6, 2012, at his home. He was born on August 8, 1927, in Overland, Mo., the son of the late Ralph Burell Clinkingbeard and Lucille (Anderick) Clinkingbeard. On September 30, 1950, he was united in marriage to Gloria Irene (Geczi) Clinkingbeard, who survives his passing. Mel was an active member of Fulton Group AA since March 1985 and the Mokane Lions Club since 1987. He retired from Boeing in St. Louis in 1985 after many years as an engineer and enjoyed raising cattle on the farm in Mokane after his retirement. He served in the Army Air Corp and was honorably discharged on September 3, 1947. In addition to his wife, Mel will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by two sons, David Clinkingbeard of Mokane and Mark Clinkingbeard of Mesa, Ariz.; three grandchildren, Jason Clinkingbeard of Columbia, Shelly Clinkingbeard Lewis of Macon and Cole Clinkingbeard of Macon; three great-grandchildren, Cotter Clinkingbeard, Jacob Clinkingbeard, and Madison Lewis; and one brother, Terry Clinkingbeard and wife, Dorothy, of St. Peters, Mo. It was Melís wishes to have his body donated to science. There will be a private family service at a later date under the direction of Maupin Funeral Home. Online condolences may be shared at www.MaupinFuneralHome.com.