Melvin Donald “Mel” Verch, age 81, of Berlin, died peacefully on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at ThedaCare Regional Medical Center-Neenah.
He was born March 7, 1944, in Berlin, WI, the son of Elmer and Elnora Wobschall Verch. After his father died in a farming accident, Mel took over running the family farm at a young age. He continued farming for many years. Mel truly was very proud to be a farmer. He also had a love of music, especially singing and playing his accordion. Mel recorded his own CDs and even had the pleasure of playing with Frankie Yankovic. Later in life, he started a DJ/Karaoke business where he was known as “The Melster”, making many friends. He had many hobbies over the years including hunting, fishing, traveling, shooting pool, playing poker and drag racing at Kaukauna. Most important to Mel however, was having a strong faith in the Lord, shown in his dedication to reading the scriptures daily.
He is survived by his son, Kevin Verch; daughter, Melanie (Benjamin) Stellmacher; five grandchildren, Theresa Verch, Cheyanne (Gabe) Diaz-Norton, Kyle Verch, Ashley Stellmacher and Breanna Stellmacher; two great-grandsons, Oliver and William; sister, Lois Kunde; and nieces, nephews, close friends and neighbors. Mel was preceded in death by his parents.
A gathering of family and friends will be held on Friday, October 3, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., at Barbola Funeral Chapel in Berlin. Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m., with Rev. Rebekah Tarras officiating. Inurnment will be in St. Paul Lutheran Cemetery. Anyone wishing to send a sympathy card to the family, please mail to Melvin Verch, c/o Barbola Funeral Chapel, PO Box 201, Berlin, WI 54923. Online condolences may be sent to the family at barbolafc@yahoo.com.
