Photo courtesy of Heritage Funeral Home and Cremation Services - Sioux Falls
Apr 20, 1970 - Oct 16, 2025 (Age 55)
My greatest memory of Mike, we were playing Bon Homme in the Dakota Dome our senior year at Deuel School, we were punting and I was the streak man on the outside, I tackled the return man just as he caught it, he fumbled the ball, Mike recovered it into the end zone for a touchdown. Go Cards!
Steve Hunt class of 1988
October 25, 2025
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. I had the honor of working with Mike for several years at Gateway, and I’ll always remember the day we took a road trip to North Sioux City in the middle of winter to pick up our new computers from the plant. Mike was one of the kindest and most gentle souls I’ve ever known—a true example of how to treat others with respect, dignity and grace. Peace be with you.
Bruce Matzen
October 24, 2025 | Sioux Falls | Coworker
Mike was an exceptional colleague and friend. His compassion for others and dedication to his work made a lasting impact on everyone around him. I had the privilege of working closely with him and developed a deep respect for the person he was—honest, kind, and committed.
Though his passing comes far too soon, I’m proud to have known him and to have shared in his work and friendship. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones.
Troy Olson
October 23, 2025 | Sioux Falls, SD | Coworker
I know Mike was always asking questions and he would ask how to fix something repeat it with a smile and give a detailed report on how it went. A very humble man, and polite!
Dennis Bell
October 23, 2025 | Keystone, SD | Coworker
My heart mourns with you in the loss of your precious loved one. May the presence of God gently surround you, embracing you with his peace and comforting grace during this difficult time,
cathy cordell
October 22, 2025 | Watertown, SD | Family
My heart is broken over the loss of my friend. He was, without question, one of the hardest working and most honest souls I've ever met.
To my friend: I am so sorry for the isolation you lived with. I need you to know this wasn't your fault. You were a good man who carried an impossible burden.
I still quote Sanford and Son to this day, be prepared when I see you again to hear me say " You big dummy"
I know you are finally free and at peace. You will be missed more...
Eric Rise
October 22, 2025 | Sioux Falls, SD | Friend
Michael Gary Meland, age 55 of Crooks, SD sadly passed away on October 16, 2025. He was born April 20, 1970 in Sisseton, SD to Gary and Jayne Meland. After starring in his high school basketball and football teams, he took his talents to college and eventually turned that into an IT Engineering/Infrastructure profession.
Mike loved to help people. So much so that he often had Bible verses bookmarked that pertained to it including his last bookmark of Micah 6:8. It didn’t matter what he was doing nor what the ask was, he was there. All of his tools have been well-used, including his circular saw that he cut the cord on twice! He also loved his grandchildren dearly: Addyson, Aiden, Ezekiel and Charity; he carried such pride for them. His 15 year-old inherited dog, Patches, was his loved constant companion these last few years, creating a strong bond between them.
Mike is survived by his wife Tammy, as well as his children and their families; Erika (Kirby) Wicks, Justin (Brittany) Dunn, Joshua Dunn, Casey Meland, and Isaiah Meland as well as 4 grandchildren, his mother Jayne Meland, many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and friends.
Please join us celebrating his life on Saturday, November 22 between 11:00am – 1pm at the Crooks Community Center, 701 S West Ave, Crooks, SD 57020.
Read More
