Melburn Wright Stocks

Melburn W. Stocks, 76, of Willmar, passed away quietly in his sleep at home on Saturday March 28, 2020 following a brief illness. His memorial service will be at a later date. Arrangements are with Harvey Anderson Funeral Home in Willmar. www.hafh.org 

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be scheduled in the future, following the conclusion of the Covid-19 quarantines.

Mel was born on August 6, 1943 in Logan Utah, the son of Paul and Melba Stocks. He grew up in Pocatello Idaho. He attended Idaho State University on an FMC Scholarship graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in in biology. He was awarded a teaching assistantship in biology while completing his Masters degree in Physiology at ISU. He went on to do post graduate work at Loyola Medical School in Chicago, Illinois on a National Science Foundation Grant.

Hallmarks of Mel’s lengthy career in agribusiness included being the CEO/owner of Marathon Harvestore Dealership, the Feed Division Director for United Suppliers Inc. and most recently from 1996-2014 President of Minaqua Fisheries. He retired in 2014. He resided in Willmar for the past 24 years.

Mel served on the National Board of Directors for the National Feed and Grain Association. He also served on the Board of Directors for the National Aquaculture Assoc. Locally, he served on the Board of Directors for Maracom Corporation.

Mel loved music and performed as lead singer of the semi-professional ARCS quartet throughout his college years. He played lead roles in several musical productions in high school, college and beyond. He was also an accomplished trumpet musician.

He attended Living Hope Church in Willmar where he was active in the choir. Mel and his wife, Linda had an interdenominational speaking ministry for many years.

He loved golf and enjoyed playing on the Valley Golf League during his retirement. During his adult years he enjoyed competing in several corporate golf tournaments. His most cherished golf memory was playing on the winning team in a Corporate Ryder Cup at St Andrews Old Course in Scotland.

Mel spoke fluent Finish having lived in Finland for almost three years, and enjoyed traveling throughout western Europe.

Mel was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Melba ‘Stocks. Family survivors include his wife, Linda Stocks of Willmar, His son Dr Justin Stocks (Scheri) of Fleming Island, FL, his daughter, Nicole Stocks-Nickens of Boone IA, grandchildren Connor, Will and Samantha Stocks and Tyler Nickens, his sister Paula Stocks, of Pocatello, Idaho., and several niece and nephews.

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