Born on the south side of Chicago, Ill. on July 15, 1922, to Michael and Agnes Wyma, Michael Melvin Wyma was the third of 5 children. He “fell in love” with Jesus Christ, and accepted Him as his savior, when he was a teenager. Soon after that time Mel met and married the “other” love of his life, Connie Warner, on July 2, 1942. Together they served as missionaries with New Tribes Mission, both overseas and in leadership in the U.S. until Mel retired in 1996. They had four children, 2 sons and 2 daughters, whom they raised, by their example and instruction, to know and love their Heavenly Father. In the final days of His life Mel was eager to “go home” to be with the Lord he loved, and be reunited with his beloved Connie who preceded him to heaven on May 1, 1997. However, he was committed to go the distance and accept God’s timing. Mel used every ounce of his strength to share the precious truth of God’s word, through his words and his life, with those who cared for him and visited with him.
Mel is predeceased by his parents, Michael Wyma, & Agnes Wyma, his brothers, Al & Sid Wyma, his sister Evelyn Voldness, his wife, Connie Wyma and great grandchild Cody Wyma. He is survived by his brother, Dick Wyma, his four children and their spouses, Paul & Faith Wyma, Tim & Betty Wyma, Starr & Howard Hoekstra & Debbie & Dan Huntting, 11 grandchildren, and 30 great grandchildren.
In Mel’s honor, a fund has been established to provide support for a radio broadcast outreach to the still unreached people in Bolivia South America. To participate please designate your gift to: “Chimane Radio-Mel Wyma Memorial Fund”, and make checks payable to New Tribes Mission (1000 E First St., Sanford, FL 32771)
A memorial service was held Tuesday, July 17 at the First Baptist Church in Sanford.
Baldwin-Fairchild Funeral Home, Sanford, is in charge of all arrangements.