Melvin "Mel" Ruthloff, 76, passed away March 28, 2026 at home in El Dorado, Kansas.

Mel was born September 27, 1949 in Newton, Kansas. He spent much of his childhood in Florence, Kansas.

At the end of high school, he joined the United States Navy, serving three years in Viet Nam. He was one of only a few selected to serve in the Navy Special Forces, Brown Water Navy (river patrol boats).

Mel was a life member of the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association, Chapter 21-6.

He is preceded in death by two grandchildren, Shane Dakota Ruthloff and Hope Danielle Ruthloff; his parents; two sisters Mary Lou Ruthloff and Linda Garcia; brother Dennis Ruthloff; and brother-in-law Richard Garcia.

He is survived by his wife, Cindy, of the home; his daughter Reena Ruthloff Gulick, two granddaughters, Noelle Gulick and Lauren Gulick; and his four favorite people, great grandchildren Jude, Scarlett, Suttyn, and Mateo; and several nieces and nephews.

Graveside and inurnment services will be held at 11:00 A.M., Saturday, April 11, 2026 at the Hillcrest Cemetery in Florence, Kansas.

Arrangements are by Affordable Cremations Plus, Wichita, Kansas.