Kay Wellington CMSgt (Ret) McMullen

February 20, 1936 - July 20, 2010

Kay Wellington CMSgt (Ret) McMullen Obituary A.k.a. "Mac" "Chief" & "Papo" Caught reading the history of "Mac's" life, well here it is...In short, he lived it to the fullest and finally has been released from these earthly bonds after a struggle with service-related health issues. Known as "Mac" to his friends, he was "Papo" to his family. Born in Fort Morgan, Colorado - Mac, like most Americans, later moved with his family - and hit the milestone of graduation from Kinsley High School in Kansas. With a little college under his belt from Kansas State College, and Kearney State Teachers College in Nebraska, "Mac" found himself drawn to enlist in the Air Force in 1956. Prior to his enlistment, he met the love of his life, Romelle at the A&W, where she worked as a carhop. After consuming many root beers and asking for a date, they went to a drive-in movie. That's all it took. They eloped, and they became soul-mates for 53 years. God blessed their marriage with three daughters: Trudy Girkins (Ron), Tracy Rasley (David) and Sandy Sampson (Ken). He was so proud of their seven grandchildren who called him "Papo": Clinton, Cole and Emily Girkins, Miles and Allison Rasley, and Brandyn (Galina) and Bailey (Jessica) Sampson, and one great-granddaughter, Lydia. Chief, as he was known to his troops, was a devoted career man and proudly served his country for twenty-eight years and five months as an air-traffic controller. He was a multiple decorated veteran of the Vietnam Theater, being quietly proud of having received the Bronze Star Medal. One of his favorite quotes, "Home of the free because of the brave". Of the things he loved in life, the time he proudly served this country in the Armed Forces presented him with many unique opportunities. Starting from the lowest of the enlisted ranks, he proudly served and eventually retired honorably as a Chief Master Sergeant. As a gifted craftsman and woodworker, he created a legacy of heirlooms for his family and closest friends to enjoy. Also known for his wit, sense of humor and charm, Papo could always be counted on to spin a good yarn. On his serious side, he was an avid history buff, and humanitarian who frequently shared his knowledge to the benefit of others. Papo brought great joy to many and will truly be missed. He is preceded by his mother, father, and baby sister, Anita, and a great-grandson. Survived by wife Romelle, brother Mike, sister Clarabelle, and all Papo's kids. Visitation will be on Monday and Tuesday, July 26th and 27th 10-5PM. His Celebration of Life, officiated by Pastor Robert Chenault, will be held at Heritage Chapel, at 11:00AM Wednesday, July 28, 2010. Memorial gifts may be made to Messiah Lutheran Church.