Melvin Howard "Haystack" Havens was born on October 2, 1954. Haystack spent many years driving a truck, which allowed him to see the country until he retired to become a professional grandpa. The only things that he loved more than hunting and fishing were his grandchildren. You could always be sure to find him with his grandchildren, a cup of coffee, and a conversation.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Oscar and Mildred (Huff) Havens; sister, Nellie Eldringhoff and husband, Steven; brother, James Havens and wife, Karen; sister-in-law, Sue Havens; and brother-in-law, Martin Amore.

Haystack is survived by his children, Stephanie (David) Crites and Krista (Justin) McClurg; grandchildren, Ana (Chris) Smith, Sierra McClurg, Lea (Alyssa) McClurg, Jacob McClurg, Bryli, Treyce, and Sam McClurg, Jenna (Ethan) Burks, and Kinley and Sophie Crites. He has always believed that family is defined by love, not blood. In addition to his daughters, he loved and helped raise Monya (Layne) Yarber, Jennifer (Keith) Potts, Tammy (Kevin) Heiney, Beth (Dusty) Nicholson and their children, Seth, Gabe, Jessalyn, and Peyton; grandchildren, Bristol, Hazel, and CJ, and many others. He is also survived by siblings, Bob (Diane) Havens, Elsie Amore, Ray (Andrea) Havens, and Tom (Becky) Havens. He will be greatly missed.

A family guided celebration of life will be held at a later date. Cremation arrangements were under the direction of Yarber Mortuary, Birch Tree, Missouri. Condolences may be expressed at www.yarbermortuary.com.