Gerald “Jerry” Mellen

Jerry Mellen was born February 23, 1937 to the late Harlow and Bessie (Thomson) Mellen. Jerry married Ethel Houghmaster on July 13, 1957, and she preceded him in death on October 14, 2016. Ethel and Jerry were married for over 50 years, and she was truly a guiding light in his life. She got him to enjoy travel and the two spent many vacations at timeshares with their friends and family. Whether it was trips to Williamsburg, the Poconos, or a Caribbean beach, Jerry was along for the ride; always in his jeans, flannel, and cowboy boots. Jerry had a reputation for being a man of few words; and instead showed he cared by remaining fiercely loyal to his family, his work, and his farming.

He devoted over 30 years to the cement plant, being a heavy equipment and crane operator. Both his sons followed in his footsteps working at Lafarge and once he retired, he relished in stories about what was going on at the plant.

His true joy in the second half of his life was farming. Rain or shine, sickness or health, he was thinking about who was going to go check on the cows. He got to see his kids helping out and then eventually his two sons took over the farm. His grandchildren all have fond memories of riding on the tractor, raising pigs with him, and helping during the hay season and chopping corn in the fall.

Surviving are his three children, Ray (Marianne) Mellen, Julie (Bernie) Bruski, Terry Mellen; six grandchildren, Terra (Brian) Koss, Marie Mellen, Chloe Mellen, Eva Mellen, Emilee Bruski, Hannah Bruski; two great grandchildren, Alexandra Koss, Zackary Koss and several nieces and nephews.

Jerry was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Maggie Ann Bruski and grandson, Jason Mellen; two sisters, May Hall and Jean Runion.

Visitation will take place Thursday, October 30, 2025, at Bannan Funeral Home from 2-8 p.m. and will continue on Friday, October 31, 2025, at Bannan Funeral Home from 10 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 11 a.m. with Pastor Sam Mock officiating.

Interment: Long Rapids Cemetery

Memorials: Hospice of Michigan or Long Rapids First Congregational Church