Melvin Dale Doramus, 88, of Wichita, Kansas, passed away at home with his wife at his side on Monday, January 26, 2026.

Dale was born on Saturday, February 6, 1937, in Wichita, Kansas, to Phillip Melvin Doramus and Irma Evelyn (Shutler) Doramus.  Dale graduated from Wichita East High School in 1955, and he joined the United States Navy as an air traffic controller stationed in Manila, Philippines.  He returned home to Wichita, and he started working for the United States Postal Service until his retirement in 1992. During this time, Dale met his wife, Barbara Jo James, and they united in marriage on May 25, 1968.

Dale was a long-time member of the USPS union serving over 50 years.  He was an active member of the Kansas Freemasonry, served with the Scottish Rite Consistory, and he was a member of the Midian Shrine leading as Chief of the Camel Herders.  One of Dale's biggest accomplishments was building the family home in Clearwater, Kansas.  He enjoyed woodworking, rebuilding vintage cars, researching his family history, and watching sports.  Dale is known for his quick wit and his blunt sense of humor.  He loved to debate and never met a stranger.  He loved good jokes and arm wrestle challenges.  Dale put up a great fight despite many years of back pain.  He was also a five-time cancer survivor.

Dale is preceded in death by his parents, brothers Donald Ray Doramus and Terry Dean Doramus, daughter Sheri Lynn Doramus, and his beloved dog Sadie.

Dale is survived by his wife of 57 years, Barbara, daughter and son-in-law Karen and Craig Brigham of Wichita, granddaughter Emerson Cochran of Wichita, daughter and son-in-law Carmen and Keith Kinley of Wichita, grandson Carrick Waybright of Wichita, father-in-law William James of Girard, Kansas, other family and friends, and his beloved dogs Buddy and Tess.

In accordance with Dale's wishes, no service will be held.  The immediate family will have a private gathering to honor Dale and celebrate his 89th birthday.   A celebration of life will be held at a later time.  Cards are welcome and may be sent to the immediate family.  Burial is at Greenwood Cemetery in Wichita, Kansas.

Baker Funeral Home Valley Center - Condolences may be left for the family at www.bakerfhvc.com