Mel S. Coonce

Mel Sherman Coonce, age 76, of Moberly, Missouri, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2025 in Springfield, MO.

Born on March 19, 1949, in Stover, Missouri, Mel was the beloved son of Clyde and Lucille Coonce. He was a man of humor, resilience, and heart, known far and wide for his quick wit, vivid storytelling, and the trademark phrase he lived by: “Here’s mine, where’s yours?”

Mel was a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his children: son Melvin G. Coonce and family of Clever; daughter Christy West and family of Oklahoma; son Mel Coonce and family of Blue Springs; daughter Tammy Hylton of Blue Springs; son Dan Coonce and family of Raymore; and son Nathan Gelina and family of Moberly. He is also survived by his sisters Linda Nichols and Mary Farmer; as well as a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, nieces, nephew, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Teresa Coonce; his parents, Clyde and Lucille Coonce; his son, 1st Lt. Mark C. Gelina; six brothers—William Woodrow, Charles, Junior, Freno, Ronnie Dean, and Russell Wayne Coonce—and his sister, Leah Coonce.

Mel’s life was marked by his ability to bring people together with laughter and stories. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Per his request a memorial graveside service will be held Friday, June 27, 2025, 11:00 am, at Sugar Creek Cemetery.