Melven E. "Duke" Neil, 86 of Wichita and formerly of Russell died Tuesday, September 7, 2010 at the Galitia Heart Hospital in Wichita, Kansas.
 
Duke was born December 11, 1923 in Little River, Kansas the son of Aubrey and Etta Neil.  He grew up and graduated from high school in Little River.
 
Duke served his country in the United States Navy during WWII.  He served in the sonar room on a Destroyer.
 
Duke was united in marriage to Helengene on January 8, 1949 in Wichita.  This union was blessed with five children; Allan, Gordon, Bill, Janet, and Linda.  Helengene preceded him in death on July 28, 2009.
 
Duke was a farmer west of Russell.  He also worked in a local floral shop.
 
He was a member of the Bunker Hill United Methodist Church.  He also belonged to the Isis Shrine of Salina.  He loved singing in Barbershop Quartets.
 
Surviving family include three sons, Allen Neil and wife Ginny of Wichita, Gordon Neil and Bill Neil and wife Carla all of Russell; two daughters, Janet Metz and husband Doug of Wichita and Linda Renberger and husband Gary of Derby; foster son, Dale Cowan of Portland, Oregon; and 15 grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his parents and wife.
 
A Memorial service will be held at a later date. Cremation has taken place.  A memorial has been established with Alzheimer's Association at 347 S. Laura, Wichita, Kansas 67211.  Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary is in charge of these arrangements.