Bobby Joe "Bob" Mellott was born July 30, 1957, in Sterling, Kansas to Orlen Dennis Mellott and Joyce Maxine Rife.  He grew up in Chase, Belle Plaine, and Kingman with siblings Jimmy, Carolyn, and Tommy.  Working hard was a lesson learned early in life.  He would ride his bike over a mile one way to care for his rabbits.  He bought and sold these rabbits and was able to buy his first car.  Bob graduated from Kingman High School on May 27, 1975.  He continued his strong work ethic working on Highway 54 and Cessna in Hutchinson, Kansas.  Following his father's footsteps, he started working in the oilfield and established his lifelong career.

Bob married Margaret Anne "Marnie" Cheatum on June 4, 1977, in Kingman, Kansas.  Bob gained a bonus son, Timothy Jerome "Tim" Seyb.  Bob and Marnie had two daughters, Kellie Anne Burnell and Julie Jo Mellott.  They raised their family in Chase, Ellinwood, and Kingman.  Raising his children, he taught them his love of fishing, hunting, and life in the oilfield.

Bob was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma with metastatic disease to the bone 7 years ago.  He was given 6 months to a year to live.  Many friends and family gained strength by his ability to continue working and providing for his family.  He passed away on August 20, 2025 at his home in Harper at the age of 68.

Preceded in death were his parents, Orlen Dennis Mellott (Rachel-living) and Joyce Maxine Clark (Kenneth); brother Jimmy Mellott (Louann-living); and great-grandchild Laken Seyb.

Survivors include wife, Margaret; stepmother Rachel Mellott: siblings Carolyn McClaflin (Dallas) and Tommy Mellott (Angela); children Tim Seyb, Kellie Burnell (Brandon), and Julie Mellott; grandchildren Dalton Seyb (Callie), Miranda Reida (Steven McMillen), Alissa Mellott, Madison Reida (James Elder), and Karson Burnell; and great-grandchildren Koda Seyb, Carter Mellott, Memphis Seyb, and Everlee McMillen (due October 2025).

Memorial Service is 3:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 27, 2025 at Prairie Rose Funeral Home in Harper.  Following the service will be a gathering/rejoice of life at Copper Lounge, 803 E. 14th St, Haper.

Memorial contributions may be made payable to Shriners Hospital for Children and can be sent in care of the funeral home.

Prairie Rose Funeral Homes, 613 W 14th St ~ Harper, Kansas  67058