Melvin Wichhart, age 78, of Tracy, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at his home in Tracy. He was born on January 20, 1948, in Pella, Iowa, the son of Adam and Jeannette (Klein) Wichhart. He attended Pella High School and later received his GED. In 1979 he was united in marriage to Melanie McCombs in Pella.
Melvin worked as a truck driver and later took a job at Vermeer. He retired from Vermeer but still drove truck part time even up until his passing. He enjoyed riding Harley Davidson motorcycles, watching NASCAR, sprint car races and camping with his family.
He is survived by his wife, Melanie Wichhart of Tracy, his children, Chad (Lynn) Wichhart of Knoxville, Larry Wichhart of Knoxville, Gabby (Dylan) Buswell of Knoxville, Lydia (Matt) Oxenreider of Chariton and Nick (Sarah) Wichhart of Tracy; his grandchildren, Zachary, Alex, Quentin, Joseph, Jessen, Emma, Bella, Brendan, Emersyn and numerous great grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, David (Rickey) Wichhart of Pella.
Melvin is preceded in death by his parents; 2 brothers, Delmar and Harold Wichhart; his mother and father-in-law; a sister-in-law, and 2 brothers-in-law.
As was Melvin’s wish, cremation will take place and a Celebration of Life will be held at the Harvey Community Center on Saturday, August 29, 2026, from 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. A private family burial will be held at a later date. The Bates Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be made to the family.
