Melvin Lee Eilert

Melvin Lee Eilert, (Hawk) was born July 19, 1953 in Beloit, Kansas.  He passed away December 20, 2017 at Mitchell County Hospital at the age of 64.  Melvin was the son of Harold and Ernestine (Mick) Eilert and the sixth of their ten children.

Melvin grew up in Beloit attending St. John’s Catholic School and Beloit High School, graduating in 1971. In his early years, Melvin worked on the family farm helping with the dairy business and field work, learning the value of hard work along with his siblings. From his Mother, he learned the art of gardening. His occupation was General Contractor in Beloit, benefiting many families and businesses in the community with his skills. He always prided himself on the quality of his work.  Melvin was very handy in just about every trade, always helping out his Mother, family and friends whenever they needed him.  He had a very ‘giving heart’ and was always there to lend a helping hand.

He had several hobbies, including hunting, fishing, and racing, to name a few.  His very favorite however was gardening. He loved spending time in his garden, but mostly sharing his produce with many in the community, including family, friends, other oncology patients and physicians.  He was a kind and talented gentleman who loved his family and enjoyed being with his son Keith, grandson Keegan, and his partner of 30 years, Carlene.  Melvin was diagnosed with cancer 18 months ago and fought till the bitter end.  Carlene cared for him until his last day, a true testament of their love for one another.  His family and friends will miss him dearly and will always remember his giving nature.

Melvin is survived by his mother Ernestine Mick of Beloit; devoted partner Carlene Soden; son Keith and grandson Keegan of  Salina; stepchildren Garett and Renee Soden of Salina; D.D. Jaussaud of Oklahoma City; step grandchildren McKason and LaKin Soden of Salina; siblings Steve (Sandy) Eilert of Sedgwick; John (Sharon) Eilert of Beloit; Larry (Karen) Eilert of  Wichita; Jan Marks of Manhattan; Becky (Bill) Braley of Manhattan; Marti (Wayne) McElroy of Randall; Judy (Bob) Tracy of Wichita; and Ted (Sabra) Eilert of Derby; many nieces and nephews; and a host of other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his brother Jim, brother-in-law Michael Marks, father Harold, and step-father Frowin Mick.

A Rosary service will be at 10 AM Saturday, December 23rd at Schoen Funeral Home and Monuments in Beloit. Memorials may be made to Melvin Eilert memorial, to be designated at a later date.