"I'll go just as far as God will let me go" was a phrase those who knew Mel Wyma heard often throughout his life. From the early years as a missionary pilot In the jungles of Bolivia South America in the 1940's and 50's, to his final days of working to recover from a stroke he suffered in November of 2010, Mel trusted, and passionately followed God.
Born on the south side of Chicago, IL 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.
A quote from a dear friend and author Dr. John White says it well, "Mel Wyma is a man obsessed with the wonder of walking with God." And that truly resonates with all who knew him.
Mel was ushered into the glorious presence of the Lord the afternoon of July 12, 2012 surrounded by his family, just 3 days before his 90th birthday. Our sadness and loss is overshadowed by a profound joy of knowing that he is finally HOME!
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 31 great grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held at the First Baptist Church, 519 S. Park Ave in Sanford, FL. at 6:30 on Tues., July 17, 2012.
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).
http://www.tributes.com/show/Michael-Mel-Wyma-94109462