Gary Meelker was born on May 28, 1947 in Albert Lea, Minnesota. He was an only child to Winnie and Garett Meelker. Gary grew up on his parents’ farm north of Hollandale. He attended school in Blooming Prairie, Minnesota. In 1966 he was drafted into the United States Army, during his time in the service he worked as a clerk in Fort Knox, Kentucky. Once honorably discharged from the service he married Jane Van Meekeren at the Hollandale Christian Reformed Church. Their enduring love was evident to all that knew them. Together they had two children, James (Jennifer) of Hollandale, Minnesota, and Andria (Jeff) of Kasson, Minnesota. He worked tirelessly to provide for his family, working the night shift at Bridon Cordage in Albert Lea and tending to his corn and soybean crops in Hollandale by day. When he wasn’t working, he could be found sitting in his easy chair reading. He was a man of few words, but his actions spoke volumes.

Gary Meelker

Gary is survived by his children James (Jennifer) Meelker and Andria (Jeff) Jensen; grandchildren Haley Meelker, Will Jensen, Jack Jensen, Thomas Jensen, and Emma Jensen.

Gary is preceded in death by his parents Winnie and Garrett Meelker and his beloved wife Jane Meelker.