Donald J. Meyer, of Melrose, passed away on his 99th birthday March 8, 2024, surrounded by his family, at the Cura of Melrose Care Center in Melrose.
A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, May 2, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose with the Rev. Marvin Enneking officiating. Inurnment will be in the parish cemetery with military honors by the Melrose Veterans Honor Guard.
Visitation will be 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, May 1, at Patton-Schad Funeral Home in Melrose and 10-11 a.m. May 2 at the church. Parish prayers will be at 6 p.m. May 1 at the funeral home.
Don was born and raised in Melrose, and other than his WWII service, spent his life in the town he loved. After graduating from Melrose High School, he joined the Army and was sent to the Pacific Theater. There, he was awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart for his bravery. While stationed overseas, Don played the saxophone for the Army division band and continued to share that talent and love of music for years by being part of the Norb Athmann Orchestra. Upon returning home, he joined his father at Meyer Bros. Lumber Company. In 1967, Don began his career at Melrose State Bank, which he co-owned and worked at for over 24 years.
After dating Gerry Zachman, the love of his life, they married in 1949 and proceeded to welcome six children who brought them their most joy. Don loved to travel with Gerry and their friends and especially loved spending time at their cabin on Big Birch Lake. But, he was most content being at home in Melrose. His endearment to his hometown was witnessed by his decades of volunteering in the community with organizations including the Chamber of Commerce, the Housing and Redevelopment Authority, the Melrose Hospital Board, Meals on Wheels, the Knights of Columbus and as an usher and server at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. As an avid golfer, he was instrumental in the development of the Meadowlark Golf Course. Don was also a lifetime member of the American Legion/VFW Honor Guard for 78 years.
Don is survived by his loving wife of 74.5 years, Gerry; children Paul (Tessie), Jeanne (Mark), Jay (Jill), Roseanne (Mark), Karl (Lorie) and Tom (Melissa). He was also blessed with 12 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. His surviving siblings include Bill, Jack and Ann.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Eleanor; brothers Mark and Jim; sisters Mary and Janet; and his grandchild, Dominic.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the Parkview and Pine Haven staff who provided loving care to Don over the past several years.
Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral and Cremation Services of Melrose.
