Milburn “Mel” Qualls, 78, of North Platte, NE passed away at his home on April 16, 2021. He was born on September 26, 1942 in Torrington, WY. Mel entered the United States Air Force on November 3, 1959 and was Honorably Discharged on April 4, 1963.
He was united in marriage to Janet (Clark) Qualls and the couple made Cheyenne, WY and North Platte, NE their homes through the years. Mel started working for the Union Pacific Railroad in 1968. He worked as a switchman, brakeman, conductor, and was an engineer for 10 years before he retired in 2003.
After retirement, he spent winters biking and participating in park activities with Jan and friends in Arizona. Mel was a member of the Eagles Club and the American Legion. He spent much of his free time hunting, fishing, boating and camping at Lake Maloney and in areas of Wyoming. He especially loved spending time with his family and friends. Mel was known for his humor, quick wit and comebacks which always kept people laughing. His smile always lit up a room. A recent highlight for Mel was a 60th wedding celebration with family in Galveston, TX.
He is survived by his wife, Jan Qualls; sister, Barb (Don) Frels; sons, Jeff (Sheryl) Qualls and Rod (Tasha) Qualls; grandchildren, Calli Qualls, Kara Qualls, Kodi Aydam, Sasha Landrigan, and Jesse Landrigan; great grandchildren, Melina and Mason Arvizu, Ali and Robby Landrigan; and many nieces and nephews.
Mel was preceded in death by his parents, Becky and Clive Miller; and a brother, Jerry Qualls.
There will be a private family graveside service at Fort McPherson National Cemetery with Full Military Honors.
Booksigning will be from 12:00 - 5:00 p.m., Monday, April 19, 2021 at Carpenter Memorial Chapel in North Platte, NE. There will be a reception at Carpenter Memorial Chapel from 3:00 – 5:00 p.m., Tuesday, April 20, 2021. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the donor’s choice.
Carpenter Memorial Chapel is entrusted with arrangements. The service will be livestreamed via Carpenter Memorial Chapels Facebook page. Online condolences and sharing of memories may be directed to www.carpentermemorial.com.