Melva Christina Achterberg passed away on April 21, 2024 in Salina, Kansas, at the age of 97.  She was born in Lincoln, Kansas, November14, 1926 to Frank and Hilda Behrens.  She was the oldest of 5 children.

On April 20, 1947 she married Loyl Achterberg.  Their children are Marvin (Wheat Ridge, CO), Duane (Hays, Kansas) and Donna (Salina, KS).

As a young girl Melva worked for several families as needed as a home helper.  She was a homemaker who was known for her wonderful baking and cooking, large gardens, and helping with whatever needed to be done on the farm.  In addition Melva is remembered by her children as dependable, hardworking, giving, loving, and totally invested in her family.

She is survived by her children Marvin (Patricia), Duane (Linda), and Donna as well as granddaughter Miranda (Josh) Eskue, step grandson Brian (Annette) Sapp, and great grandchildren Jordyn Eskue and Isaac Eskue along with many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents Frank and Hilda Behrens, her siblings Delbert Behrens, Virgil Behrens, Elmer Behrens, and Norma Kastrup, and grandson Darren Achterberg.

Graveside services will be held on Wednesday, May 1, 2024 at 1:30 PM in the St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery, Lincoln, KS.  Memorials may be given to St. John Lutheran Church, Lincoln, Kansas.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Roselawn Burial and Cremation Services. Online condolences may be sent to www.roselawnsalina.com.