Edward Joseph Melendez

Edward Joseph Melendez, 68, of Mineral, Illinois, died on January 16, 2023 at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria. Born on June 14, 1954 in Kewanee, Illinois to the late Louis and Modesta (Dominguez) Melendez united in marriage with Sally Flint on September 2, 1978 in Mineral; she survives.
Edward is also survived by his children Michael (Brittany) Melendez of Portage, MI, Jill (Chris Fronk) Melendez of Annawan, IL; grandchildren Beckett Melendez and Elliott Melendez of Portage, MI; sister Michelle Melendez of New York, NY; brother Louis (Kathleen) Melendez of Gig Harbor, WA, sister Mary (Leon) Hodges of Boone, NC. He is preceded in death by an infant older brother.

Ed graduated from Wethersfield High School and obtained his Bachelor's of Science Degree in Plant and Soil Science from Southern Illinois University - Carbondale in 1976.  He was a proud member of the Alpha Gamma Rho - Beta Alpha Chapter at SIU.

Ed worked for different park and recreation municipalities in management positions for over 35 years. His biggest passion came later in life when he became a vocational educator and FFA advisor during the past 10 years.

Ed was also a leader and speaker at Mineral United Methodist Church. He loved golfing, watching Big Ten basketball, attending car shows and working on classic cars. He also was an avid auction goer, a tinkerer and all-around handyman.

Cremation rites have been accorded and a celebration of life is planned for June 17, 2023 in Mineral Illinois. Memorials can be made on June 17th at the celebration of life (please register using the following link: Invite for Celebration of Life to ensure you are included in the event. Cards can be sent from and condolences can be left at illinicremation.com