Melvin Dean Horton

Melvin “Dean” Horton, 99, of Sedalia, MO, formerly of Topeka, KS, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 18, 2024, at Loving Arms Memorial Care and Assisted Living in Sedalia. Dean was born on August 9, 1925, in Topeka, KS, to Archie A. Horton and Ruth Adora (Foster) Horton, both of whom preceded him in death.

Dean was united in marriage to Erma "Maxine" Vowels on October 31, 1943, in Topeka, KS. They shared a loving, enduring marriage for 77 years, until her passing on May 13, 2021. Dean's devotion to his family was evident in all aspects of his life, and his love for Maxine remained strong until the very end.

Dean graduated from Highland Park High School before answering the call to serve his country during World War II. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1943, serving with honor until his discharge in January 1946. Following the war, Dean dedicated 40 years of his life to the Cash and Carry Division of Fleming Food Companies, retiring in 1986.

A lifelong sports enthusiast, Dean was a passionate supporter of Highland Park High School and Kansas State University athletics. Whether attending games or watching from home, he remained a dedicated fan of his teams throughout his life.

Above all, Dean was a devoted family man. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, always placing family at the center of his world. His kind nature, sense of humor, and strong moral compass left a lasting impression on all who knew him. Dean was also known for his work ethic, his generosity, and his steadfast commitment to his community. He was a faithful member of the First Assembly of God Church, Masonic Lodge #17 and Scottish Rite all of Topeka, KS.

Dean’s legacy lives on through his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He is survived by two sons, T. Dean Horton (Linda) of Raleigh, NC, and Larry Horton (Sharon) of Sedalia, MO; a son-in-law, Jim Spetter of Berryton, KS; seven grandchildren, Terri, Lisa, Tiffany, Traci, Amy, Lori Ann, and Troy; and twelve great-grandchildren, all of whom were deeply loved by their father and grandfather.

In addition to his wife and parents, Dean was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Deana Dale Spetter, and five brothers: Vernon, Robert, Dale, William, and Wayne Horton.

Friends may call from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Thursday, November 21, 2024, at Rea Funeral Chapel, Sedalia.

A service to celebrate Dean's life will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Monday, November 25, 2024, at Penwell-Gabel Funeral Home, 1321 S.W. 10th Ave., Topeka, KS 66604. Pastor Mike Swendson will officiate. A visitation will take place from 11:00 a.m. until the service at the funeral home.

Dean will be laid to rest at Memorial Park Cemetery in Topeka, KS, following the service.

Pallbearers will include Eddie Micheal, Bob Shelinbarger, Gary Horton, Robert Horton, Troy Spetter, and Tyler Woodington.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to the Alzheimer's Association or the First Assembly of God Church in Topeka.

Arrangements are under the direction of Rea Funeral Chapel in Sedalia, MO, and Penwell-Gabel Funeral Home in Topeka, KS.

Dean's memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, and he will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all whose lives he touched.