Marvin "David" Mell, of Farmington, Missouri, entered eternal rest on July 27, 2026, at Parkland Health Center, at the age of 84, less than 1 hour shy of his 85th birthday. David was born on July 28, 1941, in Bonne Terre, Missouri, to the late Marvin Mell and Etta "Fern" (Thomas) Mell

David leaves behind a rich legacy of love and is survived by his beloved life partner, Elsie Chamberlain; his daughters, Dayna Welker (Jeff) and Alyson Thebeau (Michael); his grandchildren, Allison Wachter (Andrew), Adelynn Welker, Haylee Thebeau, and Brody Thebeau; and the grandchildren he lovingly embraced as his own, Lana, Lance, Audriana, Ainsley, and Amillia. He is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many dear friends who will cherish his memory.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter Deanna Mell; his beloved sister Dolores Cleve; and his brothers, Tommy Mell, Robert Mell, Kenny Mell, and Marshall Mell.

David was a faithful, lifelong member of the St. Paul Lutheran Church and a proud member of the Farmington Elks Lodge #1765 for 37 years. He dedicated 32 years of service as an inspector with the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT), where he was known for his strong work ethic and commitment.

David loved his family more than anything and centered his world around spending time with them. David had a passion for playing softball and continued to play well into his 70s. He loved working puzzles, bowling, and spending time outdoors picking up hickory nuts. With his trademark line, he would often joke that he was "picking his nuts," when someone would call and ask what he was doing, he became well known among family and friends for his delicious homemade hickory nut pies. Aa a devoted sports enthusiast, David’s absolute favorite sport was anything where he was cheering on his grandchildren from the stands or watching videos of them, taking great pride in watching them compete and celebrating their accomplishments, telling them all to always “play good”. David will continue to watch and cheer on from above.

Visitation for David will be held at Cozean Memorial Chapel on Friday, August 14, 2026, from 10:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. A funeral service will be at 1:00 p.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church with Pastor Schmitt officiating who visited with David in his last days. David will be laid to rest following the funeral service at the St. Paul Lutheran Cemetery in Farmington. Memorial donations, if desired may be made to the St. Paul Lutheran School. View the video tribute and share your memories and condolences at cozeanfuneralhome.com.