Melvin Loyd Nudson, age 80, of Keats, passed away Saturday, January 24, 2026, at his home. Mel lived his entire life in this vibrant community that he cherished deeply and was known as “The Mayor of Keats”.
He was born on March 19, 1945, in Manhattan, the son of Clifford and Mary (Riniker) Nudson. As a young man, he attended grade school in Keats and graduated from Riley County High School with the class of 1963.
Mel spent his career as a mail carrier for the US Postal Service in the Manhattan area and was a member of the “Walked a Million Miles Club”. He was a lifetime member of the Keats United Methodist Church, now the Keats Lydia Chapel, where he served many roles. Mel was a member of the Keats Church Choir and blessed many with his wonderful singing voice at church as well as singing for many funerals. Mel also served on the USD 378 Riley County School Board for 12 years. He was a founding member of the Keats Lions Club and one of the organizers of the Keats 4th of July celebration.
Mel never really retired. He always had lists, things he needed to do, but he was never too busy to help someone or his Keats community. He was known for his boundless energy and love for the great outdoors. He had a knack for turning any day into an adventure, demonstrating his ingenuity and care in everything he did. He was known for his warm greetings and genuinely caring about the lives of those around him.
His sense of humor was obvious, always having a clever joke. Naming his home Confusion Hill and displaying various treasures along the highway were great fun to him. The “open range” and “half bath” always brought laughter from those that passed by.
His family was of great importance to him. He was a fixture at every game, meet, and event, providing unwavering support to his family. His creative spirit inspired him to transform his home into a playground for his family. From building a basketball goal in the garage for winter shooting sessions to crafting a treehouse that was the envy of the neighborhood, he always made sure there were ample opportunities for fun and learning. He loved to create lasting memories, whether it was through bonfires and s’mores, fishing trips, joyful moments riding horses, caring for various animals, and nurturing a deep appreciation for nature. Mel imparted life lessons with a playful touch.
He is survived by his longtime companion, Mary Cay Stauffer; his daughters Staci (Mark) Mann of Austin, Texas and Amy (Jason) Moore of Dallas, Texas; his grandson, Max Moore of Dallas, Texas; Mary Cay’s children, Mary Beth, MeLinda, JoAnna, Stephanie, Tim, and Katie. He will be missed, but never forgotten by many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his granddaughter, Jude Moore; his grandson, Wyatt Moore, and his brother and sister-in-law, Kenneth and Bessie Nudson.
Respect calls may be made throughout the day on Friday, February 6, 2026, at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home, with the family receiving friends from 4:00 pm until 6:00 pm.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 am Saturday, February 7, 2026, at the Keats Lydia Chapel with Pastor Kendall McFall officiating.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial may be made to the Keats Lydia Chapel to go towards a new roof. Contributions may be left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home, PO Box 176, Riley, KS 66531.
Condolences may be left for the family at www.apfunerals.com.
