Obituary of Beverly Jean Melmer

Beverly Jean (Isaacson) Melmer was born on August 23, 1929, and passed away on August 22, 2023, just a day shy of her 94th birthday. Bev was one of four siblings born to Earl and Eva Isaacson. Bev was preceded in death by her two brothers Eldon (Hap) and Dick Isaacson and her sister Dian Madison. Bev understood hardship at an early age as her family struggled with poverty and alcoholism. These struggles served as a foundation for Bev and strengthened her for the years ahead. 

Bev married Wesley Melmer in Dante on August 26, 1947. They lived in Lake Andes, Pierre and settled in Geddes, South Dakota in 1962. Melmer’s Market was their source of income for nearly 20 years while they raised their five children: Dennis, Bob, Rick, Jan & Lisa. They lost their oldest son Dennis in a car accident in 1968 and Bev held his memory close to her until her last day. Wes Melmer passed away on November 11, 1996, less than a year before they would have celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. She remained independent with household and lawn duties and loved her daily crossword puzzle, listening to Daniel O'Donnell and a good card game with grandkids. Bev remained a contributing member of St. Ann’s Alter Society until her move to Platte. 

Bev had a strong work ethic and was at her best when she was serving others. She cared for her aging parents and her Aunt Eileen at the end of her life. She nurtured her grandchildren that lived close to her during their younger years. She was a master in the kitchen and was famous in the Melmer household for her chicken and dumplings, pea salad and cookies. 

Bev was proud of her children and was blessed with 10 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren with more on the way. Bev is survived by her children Bob (Jeanne) Melmer and children Mitch and Phil (Haley) and their mother Ann Melmer, Rick (Valerie) Melmer and their children Tara (Ross) Rollinger, Megan (Jerry) Smith and Sean (Kristi) Melmer, Jan (Scott) Dimick and Lisa Millar and her children Sam (Maddy). Lauren (Alex) Welbig, Spencer (Kelli), Delaney (Ricky) Knecht and Kally. Bev loved her son-in-law Bill Millar who passed away in 2022. The Melmer family celebrates the life of Beverly Melmer and wanted to thank all who cared for her in her later years, especially her wonderful caregivers at Twilight Vista Assisted Living Center. 

Funeral services have been set for Friday, August 25th at 2:00 pm at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Geddes, South Dakota. Coffee and cookies will be served after the funeral and a private burial service will be held at Lake View Cemetery in Lake Andes. The family would request a memorial in lieu of flowers.