On November 18, 2025, surrounded peacefully by his loving family, Melvin (Mel) Lavery entered into eternal rest. A devoted Catholic and a man of unwavering faith, Mel lived his life as a true servant of God—generous, humble, and guided by a deep compassion for others. His quiet acts of kindness touched countless lives, often in ways known only to the people he helped.
Born on November 1, 1945, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Charles William and Cecilia (Lillig) Lavery. Mel grew up in the Westport area and later in Mission, sharing a lively childhood with siblings Shirley, Ed, Chuck, Bob, Frank, Ralph, Paul, Margaret Mary, and Theresa. Though he often described himself as having “just decent grades,” Mel excelled as a leader—graduating from Bishop Miege High School as President of his senior class and later earning his degree from Rockhurst University. He made a lasting impact on both institutions. He served as a board member and was honored as Alumnus of the Year at Miege. At Rockhurst he has several naming honors. He also served as the President of the Alumni Association, and was on the Leadership Council and most recently on the Board of Trustees.
While working at Deloitte & Touche, Mel met the love of his life, Rita. From the moment they met, he knew he had found his soulmate. While Mel served in the Army Reserves, they were blessed with two wonderful sons who soon became the center of their world Their marriage—one built on faith, devotion, and partnership—became the foundation of more than 50 wonderful years together. They traveled the world side by side and were fixtures at Catholic Charities’ Snowball, Gaudeamus, and many other events supporting causes close to their hearts.
After his years with Deloitte & Touche, he became the treasurer for LMF Corporation. They were bought out in 1979 and choosing to remain in Kansas City, he found his professional home at Hallmark Cards. It was the perfect match—an organization whose values of hard work, integrity, family, and service to the Kansas City community aligned seamlessly with his own.
In his work in the Hall Family Office, Mel was able to combine his work with one of his greatest passions: golf. Working with the family, designers, and developers, he was a driving force in transforming the old Hall family’s farmland along State Line into what is now Hallbrook Country Club and neighborhood.
Even with a full and accomplished professional life, the most important things to Mel remained constant—his Catholic faith and his family. Though he cherished weekend golf and golf trips, he never missed a game, event, or milestone in the lives of his sons, and later, he could always be found in the stands cheering on his grandchildren.
Mel and Rita were among the founding families of Good Shepherd Catholic Church in Shawnee. Mel was on the church’s Finance Council. He also served on the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas as the Chairman of its Finance Council. He tirelessly supported Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas as a board member. In 2018 Mel and Rita were honored at Snowball for their lifetime commitment to Catholic Charities.
Mel is survived by his devoted wife, Rita, of 54 years, whom he loved more deeply than words could ever express; his sons Brian (Christina) and Matt (Courtney), of whom he was immensely proud; seven grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren who brought him immeasurable joy. He is also survived by his sisters Margaret Mary Kirkpatrick and Theresa Boydston, and his brothers Chuck, Bob, and Paul, with whom he shared lifelong bonds of faith, laughter, and cherished memories.
Though Mel will be dearly missed, his family finds peace knowing he has been welcomed home into the arms of God. His legacy—one of faith, service, humility, and unconditional love—will continue to shine through all who were blessed to know him.
Rosary and visitation will be held Monday, November 24 at Good Shepherd Catholic Church at 9:30 followed by the Funeral Mass at 11:00. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to Catholic Charities of NE Kansas, Good Shepherd Catholic Church, or Rockhurst University.