Melvin “Mel” joined his Lord on September 10, 2022. He was born August 5, 1934, was baptized at the St. Mary’s Walnut Grove Methodist Church; and resided & devoted to his hometown of St. Marys. Mel was preceded in death by his parents, Clinton L. McDermitt and Margaret Eilene (Kelley) McDermitt. His sisters, Betty Jean Rable and Marilyn Louise Jones. Nina May (Duncan) Yerke, foster aunt.
Nicknamed “Peanut” by his classmates he graduated in 1952 from St. Marys Memorial High School, and shortly thereafter honorably served our country in the U.S. Army from April 2, 1957 to April 17, 1959. During his active duty he was a paratrooper, sharp shooter, and marksman. His new nickname given by his fellow troop members was “Mickey”.
After his active duty he was a member of the reserves & worked in the private sector for Goodyear in St. Marys. He served as their Military Merchandiser for 35 years until his retirement.
He was a 32 nd degree Mason of the St. Mary’s Masonic Lodge #121 for 40 years and a member of the Shriners of Dayton, Ohio for 35 years. A member of the St. Marys Eagles Aerie #767 for 50 years and the American Legion Post #323 of St. Marys for 40 years. He enjoyed farming and helping his adjoining family farm as well.
He married Margaret “Peggy” Ann (Parker) Jenkins on September 7, 1991. He was an avid golfer, farmer, hunter, enjoyed all sports, and loved to read. Mel was a devoted Ohio State fan as well. Above all he was a loving husband, step-dad, grandfather, uncle and friend to many.
He is survived by his wife, Peggy, Brother-in-law, Dean Casey, three step-children; Don (Kelli Snyder) Jenkins, Debora (Tom) Valentine, Dwayne (Angie) Jenkins, seven grandchildren, many great and great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, great and great-great nieces and nephews, and his loving friend and companion, his dog, Jutta.
Respecting Mel’s wishes. There will be a Celebration of his life for family and friends that will begin at 5:00 p.m., on Friday, September 16, 2022 at Bayliff & Son Funeral Home, 311 West Main Street Cridersville, OH 45806. There will be an opportunity for story sharing and a Military Flag Presentation. The family will receive friends from 4:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. Following the service will be a time for additional sharing with refreshments.
Please join us in wearing Ohio State Buckeye attire in his honor.
In lieu of flowers and mementos, the family requests memorial contributions be given in his honor to the Shriners Children’s Ohio, Office of Development, 1 Children’s Plaza, 2 West, Dayton, Ohio 45404.
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