Melvin "Mel" Schmidt was born on March 4, 1926, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and grew up in Hales Corners, where he lived his entire life. He was the son of Norman and Hilda (née Behling) Schmidt.

Mel graduated from Hales Corners Elementary School and Juneau High School. After graduation, he was drafted into the U.S. Marine Corps and served proudly in the South Pacific during World War II.

Following his military service, Mel worked at Hales Corners State Bank, and later as a foundry salesman for Sterling Wheelbarrow Co. He eventually operated a retail store and went on to serve as a manager at Stefaniak Realty in Hales Corners, where he retired.

On September 23, 1950, Mel married Elaine Bertram. They were blessed with their son, Todd, born on April 4, 1962.

Throughout his life, Mel was deeply involved in his community. He served as Commander of the Hales Corners Auxiliary Police and was instrumental in starting both the community blood bank and the teenage dance and recreation nights at Hales Corners Elementary School.

He was an active member and President of the Whitnall Park Rotary, President of the Hales Corners Businessmen's Association, Treasurer of the Hales Corners Little League and Grand Marshal of the Hales Corners Fourth of July Parade. Mel also served faithfully on numerous church committees.

Mel loved fishing, hunting with his son and friends, traveling, and golfing with Elaine and their many companions. He especially treasured time spent with his two beautiful granddaughters. Mel took great pride in sharing stories about his great-grandfather, who served as a State Representative and traveled from Muskego to Madison by horse and buggy.

Mel and Elaine shared 75 wonderful years together, living a happy and faithful Christian life. "When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure."

Mel is survived by his beloved wife, Elaine (née Bertram); his son, Todd, and daughter-in-law, Cary; and his cherished granddaughters, Cortney and Nicole. He is further survived by his brother, Harlow, and sister-in-law, Young, of Hawaii; sister-in-law, Kathie; as well as nieces, nephews and many dear friends.

Preceded in death by his parents, Norman and Hilda Schmidt, his brothers-in-law, Robert (Eileen) Bertram, Edwin (Mildred) Bertram and Max Bertram and sister-in-law, Laverne Albers and many beloved friends.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to all of Mel's relatives and friends for sharing their love and friendship over the years. His wonderful, God-given personality will long be remembered by all who knew him.

As of the week of his passing, Mel was the oldest living resident of Hales Corners who was born there.

A funeral service for Mel will be held at St. Jacobi Lutheran Church (8605 W Forest Home Ave, Greenfield, WI 53228) on Friday, October 31st, 2025, at 11:30 AM. Visitation will be from 10-11:30 AM. Interment will follow the service at Wisconsin Memorial Park (13235 W. Capitol Dr., Brookfield, WI 53005).