Melvin Leroy Greeley

Melvin Leroy Greeley, age 87, of Madelia, MN, died on June 15, 2024, surrounded by his family at Mayo Health System in New Prague, MN.

A memorial service will be held at the Madelia Church of Christ on August 23, 2024 at 2:00pm with visitation one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will be at Riverside Cemetery in Madelia.

Military rites will be provided by the Madelia Area Veterans Honor Guard.

Arrangements are with the Sturm Funeral Home in Madelia. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.sturmfh.com.

Melvin was born June 14, 1937, in Westford Township, Martin County, Minnesota to Allen and Frances (Booth) Greeley. He graduated from Madelia High School in 1955. On January 30, 1960, he married Darlean Olson at Augustana Lutheran Church in Saint James. He carried Darlean’s graduation picture in his wallet for 65 years. Together, they raised five children. From 1960 to 1965, he served in the US Army and was honorably discharged.

During Melvin's working career as a machinist, he worked for Scherr Tumico in Saint James, 3M in New Ulm, Mico in Mankato and for the last 29 years at Crysteel in Lake Crystal. However, Melvin's true passion was farming. Together with Darlean, he purchased and worked his parents farm near Madelia. Over the years, he raised a variety of animals, including 4H projects for his kids.

In his free time, Melvin enjoyed antiquing. He and Darlean set up shop at area antique shows for more than 40 years. Among other things, he collected pocket watches and antique toys. He enjoyed repairing antique mantle clocks and wood and candlestick phones. Melvin also enjoyed playing cards, cribbage, telling jokes, and was considered to be an extremely skilled negotiator.

Faith was important to Melvin. He was a member of the Madelia Church of Christ. In his early years with the church, he and Darlean worked with the youth group. Over the years, he served on the Church Board, was an elder, and often did whatever was needed.

Melvin is survived by his wife, Darlean of 64 years; children, Judy (Mike) Zylstra of Villa Grove, Illinois, Barb (Ron) Zylstra of Stewartville, Cindy (Tom) Medcalfe of Dodge Center, Cathy Greeley of Lanesboro, and Daryl Greeley of Lewisville; 6 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren with one on the way; and brother, James Greeley of Peoria, Arizona, along with many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Melvin was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Betty (Raymond) Boomgarden; and sister-in-law, Velma Greeley.

The family would like to give a special thank you to Duane, Luanne, and family for all their care and support.