Melvin Lavern Parkhurst was born November 12th, 1932 in Oakwood, Oklahoma to Pearl and Johnny Parkhurst. He passed away Friday, January 8th, 2021 at Elk City, Oklahoma at the age of 88 years, 1 month and 27 days.
Melvin grew up in the Oakwood, Oklahoma area he attended school. After leaving school he enlisted in the United States Army in 1952. He served in the Korean War as a part of the 57th Infantry Division before his discharge in 1954.
Melvin returned to the Hammon, Oklahoma area where he lived with his brother Wayne. He met and was married to Deann (Tunis) Parkhurst on June 30, 1963 in Wheeler, Texas. After their marriage they made their home in the Cheyenne area where Melvin continued to farm and helping his brother. In the early 70’s when the oil field came to western Oklahoma Melvin began his career starting as a floor hand and ended his career as a company man for Parker Drilling retiring after 20 years. Not being a man that could stay still, he owned and operated Cheyenne Fencing Company for many years and later was employed by various dairies. In his spare time Melvin enjoyed his horses, traveling with the wagon train and spending time with his family and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, 1 daughter, Nancy Moore and 1 stepson, Dean Tunis.
Melvin is survived by his wife of 57, Deann, of the home; 1 daughter, Joann Parkhurst and husband, Corey Cook, Cheyenne, OK; Deann’s stepdaughter, Mira Burrows, Hammon, OK; 5 grandchildren; 4 step grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren; 9 step great grandchildren;1 brother, Robert Parkhurst, Duncan, OK and a host of other relatives and friends.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, January 14, 2021 at 10:00 A.M. at the Community Fellowship Church officiated by Dolan Ivey. Burial will be at the Cheyenne Cemetery under the direction of Chris Whinery and the staff of Affordable Cremation Service- West. Condolences can be made online at www. classicfunerals.com