Obituary: Frederick Melvin, Jr., 64

Frederick Melvin Ream, Jr., age 64, of Green Ridge, passed away on Monday, October 1, 2012 at his home. He was born on September 20, 1948 in Sedalia, a son of Flossie Helen (Spry) and Frederick Melvin Ream.   On December 20, 1980 he was united in marriage to Donna Marie Webster. They have two children, Frederick Melvin Ream III of Green Ridge and Sara Jean Spaedy and her husband John Ryan of Sedalia.   Fred graduated from GRHS in 1966 and attended CMSU before serving his country during the Vietnam War. He enlisted in the Navy Sea Bees stationed in Norfolk, VA. After being discharged, he worked for Home Builders and K.E. May Service Company, Sedalia. In the late 70’s and early 80’s, Fred owned and operated Fred Ream Racing and Fred’s Fuel Sales. He built many Sprint cars, mini sprints, modified midgets and race karts. He later owned and operated Ream Heating and Cooling. He was an excellent welder, machinist, sheet metal fabricator and gun smith. For the last 15 years, Fred was also a licensed gun-dealer. He especially loved Remington Pistols and attending the Tulsa Gun Shows. Fred was a member of the Presbyterian Church and the NRA. He was a 3rd generation, lifelong resident of Green Ridge, serving as both Alderman and Mayor for his community.   A memorial service will be held at 6:00 pm, Friday, October 5, 2012 at Green Ridge Baptist Church with Rev. Bill Talley officiating. Fellowship will follow service.   Family will receive friends one hour prior to service.   There will be a private interment in Green Ridge Cemetery.   The family kindly suggests any memorial gifts may be given to Harry S. Truman VA Hospital in Columbia, Bothwell Hospice, Green Ridge Baptist Church or Green Ridge Presbyterian Church in care of Rea Funeral Chapel, Sedali