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Dr. Jeffrey Meldrum
1958 - 2025
Dr. Jeffrey Meldrum
1958 - 2025
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1958
DIED
2025
Jeffrey Meldrum Obituary
A pillar of ISU's Department of Biological Sciences since 1993, Dr. Meldrum taught human anatomy and courses in evolution and primatology. Beyond campus, he became one of the country's most recognized voices on the Bigfoot question. He assembled a large collection of footprint casts, appeared in documentaries and interviews, and engaged the public with measured, accessible explanations of evidence and method.
His scholarship focused on foot morphology and the evolution of bipedal locomotion. He co-edited "From Biped to Strider: The Emergence of Modern Human Walking, Running, and Resource Transport" and authored "Sasquatch: Legend Meets Science," bringing scientific framing to a topic more often treated as folklore.
Born May 24, 1958, Dr. Meldrum earned his B.S. and M.S. from Brigham Young University and a Ph.D. in anatomical sciences from Stony Brook University in 1989. He completed postdoctoral work at Duke University before joining ISU.
At Idaho State, he also served as editor-in-chief of "Relict Hominoid Inquiry," a scholarly journal hosted by the university. His steady editorial hand encouraged careful documentation and open debate on a controversial subject.
By Legacy News Staff
(Image: Don Jeffrey Meldrum via Facebook)
146 Entries
Taylor Sharp
November 3, 2025
"I'm not a BELIEVER in Sasquatch... I have been CONVINCED that they exist" (quote from Dr. Jeff Meldrum in Todd Standings incredible Documentary called "Discovering Bigfoot")
That's probably the single most important and greatest thing anyone has ever said about Bigfoot in the 2.5 decades I've been avidly studying and researching them. When I think of him all I see is his smiling face, great man and one of the greatest Scientific minds of the last 100 years+
Kathleen Leahy
November 2, 2025
My sincere condolences to Dr. Meldrum's family. I always appreciated his scientific demeanor when discussing my favorite subject, Bigfoot. My twin sister died of brain cancer this year. She was also a fan of Dr. Meldrum. May he rest in glory
Anne Cagle
November 2, 2025
I will miss his ability to encourage intelligent and open minded inquiries in physical anthropology. I admired his courage to challenge traditional/mainstream and often outdated assumptions. History will remember Dr. Meldrum as a pioneer in this new era of scientific enlightenment.
Tracy Tavalsky
November 2, 2025
You were a true inspiration and you will be missed. Thank you
How you can show support
Jon Stokes
November 1, 2025
My condolences on your loss. It was so nice to see a scientist that took the Bigfoot phenomenon seriously. He will be missed by many people.
Joe Schmidt
November 1, 2025
Truly a class individual!
Kristie Paresi
November 1, 2025
I am so shocked and saddened that Dr Meldrum has passed away. I will never get to meet the wonderful person that made me believe in Bigfoot. He will be missed by millions of people, no one will ever take his place.
David Domer
October 30, 2025
I pray for your family. Jeff was such a good man and so soft spoken. My wife and I had a long conversation with him at this year´s Bigfoot conference at Salt Fork in Ohio. He will be missed.
Dustin Sewell
October 28, 2025
Thank you for your professional, and significant contributions to Sasquatch research. Without your work, many questions would remain unanswered.
Robin Lathrop
October 27, 2025
Im just beside myself been watching you for a very long time.You will be missed
Charles Jones
October 27, 2025
It is with deep regret that I and the world will not be able to listen to your knowledge of big foot and stories you told ,rest in peace Doctor Meldrum.
Dee Lemmon
October 26, 2025
I'm so sorry to learn of the passing of Dr. Meldrum. I held a lot of respect for his work. The future will prove his convictions were correct. Condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.
Danielle Padilla
October 25, 2025
My deepest condolences to the family of Prof. Jeff Meldrum. I was very fortunate to meet him during the 2024 Yakima Valley Bigfoot Con at Legends Casino Hotel. His presence was immense and his contributions to Bigfoot research is astounding. It was a great honor to meet him. At today´s Bigfoot Con, a beautiful tribute was held in his honor. A great man. He is truly missed.
Willieharrington
October 21, 2025
Rip mate
Thank u
Australia New Zealand Samoa
Francisco J. Ricardo
October 21, 2025
I never met Jeff personally, but his impact on my willingness to accept Bigfoot as a real species was greater than anyone ever had on me. As a PhD myself, I appreciated his respect for rigor and yet, his open-minded demeanor and values were truly unusual in my years' experience with other scholars; many are speculative but sloppy, and many are diligent but stubborn, both are great hurdles to real insight. Jeff was the model of an ideal Solomon-like approach to discovery. I will think of him every day, glad that he lives in many documentary films, and pray for his family, which was blessed to have someone in their lives who most of us never got to meet.
With love always,
Francisco J Ricardo
Bruce Perry
October 18, 2025
Always respected Jeff's contributions on TV shows and he was always the go to guy for clarification on Bigfoot questions.
I was saddened with his passing and God bless his family and loved ones.
Michael Newhart
October 18, 2025
God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Matthew McQuitty
October 16, 2025
Thank you, for everything that you´ve done in life and for all the Love and Passion that you shared with us. Your name and your work will live on forever! My prayers and sincere condolences go out to all of the family, friends and colleagues. God Bless.
Terry Y
October 16, 2025
I am heartfelt sick to hear of Dr. Meldrum´s passing. I was somewhat of a skeptic of Bigfoot until listening to him on different programs. We have certainly lost a great scientific mind and I´m sure the best proponent and most respected person to further the advancement of Bigfoot research. Rest in peace Dr. Meldrum, you will be truly missed.
Kevin
October 15, 2025
Jeff was one of the only credible scientists willing to take a serious look at the Bigfoot question. Loved watching him in interviews, he seemed so kind sad to hear of this news. Thank you Jeff for everything you´ve done
Ryan McIntyre
October 13, 2025
It is a very sad occasion for planet earth that lost such a remarkable man such as this man was.
I had the privilege of speaking to Dr. Meldrum on two occasions by phone.
He was
extremely receptive, and very kind and respectful to me. I consider him a legend in his field of expertise and a genuinely nice person.
I was shocked and very saddened at the News of his passing.
My very sincere condolences to his family, and friends.
He will be greatly missed.
Ryan McIntyre
October 13, 2025
I
Jackie
October 12, 2025
You will be greatly missed! Prayers to your loved ones! May the Lord receive you into his kingdom!
Dee Dee Lambert
October 10, 2025
I am deeply saddened and heart broken to hear of Dr Meldrum´s passing. As much as I watch everything Bigfoot, it is hard to believe I had not heard about this. I just heard it on a podcast about Bigfoot that I came across tonight. I will really miss seeing his input on all the shows he guests on, it just will not be the same. Prayers to his family and friends.
M Sanchez
October 9, 2025
Deeply saddened to hear of your passing. Loved listening to your information and belief in Bigfoot. The world is a little less bright without you here. Rest in Peace.
Kevin Rose
October 8, 2025
I feel like I've lost a long time friend. I'm sorry I never got the chance to meet him. So sorry for your loss. My prayers are with your family.
Crystal Crawshaw
October 8, 2025
Our condolences to your family. We are so sorry to hear about Dr. Meldrum´s passing. My husband and I were big fans of his and truly respected his work.
James Clark
October 8, 2025
Thank you for all your hard work years, days and weeks that you put into the whole Bigfoot world. You made a huge impression on a lot of people, including myself. I am saddened to see this. I will miss seeing you on TV. Sharing your knowledge and your work with all of us. Rest in peace, my friend.
Cristobal J. Utset
October 7, 2025
Heard today about the untimely passing of Dr. Meldrum, whom I have admired for many years for his courage and open scientific mind. Wish him eternal peace. He will be missed!
Robert W Kidd
October 7, 2025
I was very sorry to hear about Dr Jeff meldrum's passing as I really admired him where he had the courage to come out and say that he believed that Sasquatch was real and not only that justified scientifically and being a professional I hadn't heard about till just today and my condolences go out to his family in my prayers rip Jeff meldrum
Jason Jackson
October 7, 2025
My condolences to the family of Dr. And Mr. Jeffrey Meldrum. He was truly a pioneer in the Sasquatch research field. R.I.P. Dr. Jeffrey Meldrum. Your addition to and research of the field of Sasquatch and Sasquatch research. Has made such a huge impact on the disclosure of this great ape/human like creature.
Dorinda Pardoe
October 6, 2025
"My sincere sympathies go out to everyone grieving the loss of Dr. Jeff Meldrum.
Even as a non-acquaintance, I felt compelled to share my gratitude for his life's work. Dr. Meldrum was a hero to many for his dedication, integrity, and intellectual openness.
He stood out as a scientist who was unafraid to pursue questions that others deemed too risky or unconventional. His rigorous study of potential Bigfoot evidence gave the field a level of respect and seriousness it rarely received, showing us all the importance of examining evidence without bias.
For many of us who follow the subject, Dr. Meldrum´s research provided not only data, but a sense of validation and possibility. His legacy will continue to inspire those who believe that the greatest discoveries are often found on the edge of the known world. Thank you, Dr. Meldrum, for your courage and your contribution."
Mark Suter
October 4, 2025
I'm hit with the lose of Dr Meldrum as deeply as if he were family. His incredible knowledge of the bigfoot whether real or perceived will influence bigfoot research for generations ahead. I am a believer cause his reseach and writings. God bless his family and close friends a deeply respected the man and his work.
Dr. Chris Mentillo
October 4, 2025
I am deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Jeffery Meldrum. His unwavering commitment to scientific inquiry and his passionate pursuit of truth in the field of cryptozoology set him apart as a singular academic force. There will never be another quite like him.
Dr. Meldrum´s groundbreaking research and fearless dedication elevated the study of cryptids to unprecedented heights. Without his tireless efforts, the field would not have achieved the recognition and legitimacy it holds today.
He was, without question, one of the most brilliant, patient, kind, and compassionate scientists I have ever known. His contributions to the advancement of cryptozoological science are unmatched, and his courage in defending a discipline often met with skepticism was nothing short of heroic. Dr. Meldrum risked much to pursue a path few dared to follow, and in doing so, he paved the way for future generations of researchers.
His work-especially in the study of Bigfoot and the analysis of footprint evidence-transformed public and scientific understanding of this elusive subject. The depth of his research and the integrity of his approach will remain a gold standard in the field.
It is difficult to imagine anyone truly filling the void left by Dr. Meldrum. His legacy, however, is indelible. It will continue to inspire both the scientific community and the broader public for years to come. RIP my friend.
Renee Norris
October 4, 2025
So wonderful to have met you . You made a huge difference in this world with your research
Renita Hulsey
October 4, 2025
Dr.Meldrum was a true pioneer in the Bigfoot field, his open mind, his knowledge, and his humble honesty will be forever missed. RIP
Maura E Oshea
October 2, 2025
I'm stunned and saddened to hear of Dr. Meldrum's passing. I'm sure this is a loss to the University of Idaho community and his family. All are in my thoughts. I feel that the loss of this academic heavyweight however will have a big impact on the study of Sasquatch and those who are devoted to fact finding. I will miss his cameo's (as an expert) on many shows speaking on the subject.
Tom Bowles
September 30, 2025
A Giant of a Man
Vicki Holmstrom
September 30, 2025
Godspeed, Dr Meldrum. You will be missed. For me personally, the honorary "Fifth Horseman" created a scientific side to Sasquatch research that had been missing. Rest in peace, Jeff.
Bruce and DeAnne Moore
September 30, 2025
My wife and I met Dr. Meldrum at a bigfoot conference, He was very kind and took time to talk to us. We picked out one of his books that he signed for us. When we finished talking to him we turned to walk away and that's when he stopped us with a big smile and very politely reminded us that we needed to pay for the book.
Rick Taylor
September 30, 2025
I was blessed with meeting, listening to and hanging out with Jeff on a number of occasions throughout my 20 plus years of Bigfoot/Sasquatch research. He was always very knowledgeable, kind and a pure gentleman in every way. I will miss him so very much! Rest in peace Jeff! may God bless and keep throughout eternity.
Greg Fry
September 29, 2025
God speed....Thankyou for all the great research you've done
Trinity
September 28, 2025
The world has truly lost an amazing soul ! The knowledge he carried with him can never be understated! I am truly broken hearted and my condolences go out to his family and those closest to him ! Our world has lost a great man
John Hoffman
September 28, 2025
Thank you Dr. Meldrum for your contribution to the Sasquatch phenomena. Rest in Peace
Wendy Rowland
September 28, 2025
A terrible loss
Debra and Andy Wen
September 28, 2025
Rest in Peace Dr.Meldrum. We will miss you!
Debbie Taylor
September 28, 2025
So sad to just hear of Dr. Meldrum's passing from "Small Town Monsters" program. I've seen him many years sharing his expertise on footprints. I always felt he was one person who gave credence of the existence of Bigfoot; someone who could be trusted. We appreciated his research so much. Prayers of peace and comfort to his precious family.
Gwen Hendrick
September 28, 2025
Our sincere Sympathy to all of Dr. Meldrum' family. My daughter and I had the privilege of meeting Dr. Meldrum in West Virginia over the summer. He was very kind and we spoke for quit awhile. We appreciate the dignity and serious research he brought to the subject of Sasquatch existence. He never went out in the weeds, he stuck to proven facts and research. The field needs more Dr Meldrums. God Bless all who grieving this sad loss.
Gwen Hendrick
Joyce Beltran
September 27, 2025
IT IS SEPTEMBER 27th. 2025,5:36 pm. Florida. I've just learned on the passing of Dr. Jeff Meldrum. I've watched your Documentaries Dr. Meldrum and followed as much as I could on bigfoot theories. I will miss very much hearing from you on any documentaries Dr. Meldrum. My prayers and condolences to the families. My prayers lead you to Father Dr. and may you be well. Good Journey Dr. Meldrum Sir.
Good Journey . A Fan, Joyce
Ed Moore
September 27, 2025
RIP Dr. Meldum. Your work on Bigfoot was outstanding. Condolences to your family. We will miss you.
LANE WILLIAMS
September 27, 2025
What a Sad loss.. I have been following professor meldrums career for several years... I have been a lifetime resident of Idaho and I was really intrigued by his research into Bigfoot footprints.. I thought it was really fantastic that one of the foremost authorities on Bigfoot actually lived in my state and taught at Idaho State University just an hour or so from where I actually live.. he is definitely going to be missed.. I loved watching all of the different Bigfoot documentaries and television shows that Professor Meldrum was in over the years.. I hope there is somebody of his caliber who is going to pick up his research and carry it on into the coming years.. Idaho State University has lost a great professor.. my condolences and may He rest in peace.
Cindy Potter
September 27, 2025
I had ssooo much respect for Dr Meldrum and his bigfoot research. God bless he and his family in their loss.
Alan Werhan
September 27, 2025
Jeff was a nice guy. I met him when I was taking anthropology at SFCC in Spokane when he spoke there in the late 80's.
Janice Johnson
September 26, 2025
I am so sorry to hear of his passing ,
Sending prayers for his family and loved ones. Rest in peace Dr.Meldrum.!
Phyllis Flick
September 26, 2025
DR Meldrums philosophy on Bigfoot was so interesting. His facts and theories were fantastic to read and I watched him on TV programs alot. The cryptography world lost a great guy. RIP Dr Meldrum.
Jeff Fields
September 26, 2025
RIP Dr. Meldrum. You made me extremely happy when I finally got to me you and talk to you at the Red River Gorge Bigfoot Festival this year. You will be greatly missed.
George
September 26, 2025
I will miss your enlightening look at bipedals. May you rest in peace. You will be missed by my wife and myself
Michael S Feltner
September 26, 2025
RIP Dr Jeffrey Meldrum...Jeff was a Fantastic Human Being. So Nice And Knowledgeable. Followed him Since the 90s. Everytime I met him he was So Nice
His Sasquatch Knowledge was Unbelievable and His Cast Collection was Just the Best. God Bless you Jeff Prayers goes out to You and Your Family. You will definitely be Missed...You was a Great Friend to us all in The Bigfoot Community. Mike Feltner
Jason Stinger
September 26, 2025
Such a kind man, so skilled at his teaching at ISU
Gene Courter
September 26, 2025
The Bigfoot research world and academic community lost a legend. Very saddened by this. Dr. Meldrum will be missed by all who followed his work. Condolences to his family.
Gene Courter
Beverly Colbert
September 26, 2025
RIP DR. Meldrum
Phoenix Carson
September 26, 2025
Thank you for inspiring me and helping legitimize "Bigfoot". You will be greatly missed.
Terry Gardner
September 25, 2025
A great man who did much to promote the understanding of bipedalism and also his scientific approach to hominid studies. Bringing a myth into the realm of possibility. Facts vs Fiction. He will be missed.
Paulette Van Orden
September 25, 2025
Jeff was a childhood friend of mine in Spokane. When I found out he was a bigfoot expert, I contacted him and he immediately sent a brochure to my grandsons, true believers. They couldn't believe I knew this famous scholar. He was a such a nice friend when we were young that grew into a good man, from all I've read about him. It is obvious that he will be missed, both as a scientist and equally important as a good person.
Brandon Buckingham
September 25, 2025
Such a genuine man. He leaves an amazing legacy and we will miss him. Godspeed Dr. Meldrum. :(
Nance Graak
September 24, 2025
So sorry that a wonderful scientist left us. You were amazing. Love to your family.
WSU alumni
Bruce Wiegers
September 24, 2025
I was shocked tonight to learn of Dr. Meldrum's passing. I met him only a few times, but he made a major impact on my life. What a brilliant and jovial man. He will be missed greatly. My condolences.
Scott Hatfield
September 24, 2025
Thanks for the years of great research and teaching. RIP
Gretchen Knapp and Angelo Capparella
September 24, 2025
Sincere condolences on a great loss to science, family, and friends - even those who never met him in person - may his memories be a blessing and he rest in peace.
Elizabeth Jackson
September 24, 2025
Im sorry to hear of Jeff's passing. I followed him on numerous bigfoot documentaries, and trusted his findings and theories.
Ray Harwood
September 24, 2025
ALEJANDRO NUNEZ
September 23, 2025
YOU WILL BE MISSED. R.I.P MY FRIEND.
Chuck L
September 23, 2025
May he rest in peace it was always so interesting to hear what he had to say about the Bigfoot subject
Mark lawrance
September 23, 2025
R.I.P,my condolences to your family and friends thanks for being a great knowledge on Sasquatch and an inspiration to so many other people.
Karla Guffie
September 23, 2025
Rest in peace, Dr. Meldrum. You were a kind and intelligent man who always had time for EVERYONE. You will be greatly missed, but never forgotton. Thank you for the bravery and integrity it took for you to stand up what you believed in, for what you KNEW to be true. You single-handedly changed the minds of so many skeptics. Pure class and a true gentleman in every way. I hope that you have all the answers you were looking for. #cancersucks
Johnny Spruiell
September 22, 2025
WOW. I was shocked to hear about Dr. Meldrum's passing.. My condolences and prayers are with the family.. Courageous man and stood for what he believed in.. BUT NOW HE KNOWS.. Rest in peace fine Sir ...
Ben
September 22, 2025
R.I.P Jeff you really thought us a lot, you will sorely be missed
Mandy Taggart
September 22, 2025
I was sorry to learn of Dr Jeff Meldrum´s passing and send my condolences to his close loved ones and friends. Jeff was a great inspiration for many!
Cathy Walker
September 22, 2025
R.I.P. Dr Meldrum. My prayers are with your family. I loved to watch your presentations and hear your incredible knowledge on Bigfoot. I was a genuine fan.....I will miss you. God Bless
Heide
September 22, 2025
Dr. Meldrum, you will be missed by so many of your followers in the world of Bigfoot research. I enjoyed listening to many of your interviews in that field. May you rest in peace.
Scott Darville
September 22, 2025
God bless.a man who fought for his beliefs
Daniel Rhodes
September 22, 2025
We absolutely Love Jeff Meldrum. He was so wise and yet very humble and kind. We pray his family will feel the love of our Savior during this time.
Sally V.
September 22, 2025
R.I.P Dr. Meldrum, your knowledge of bigfoot was incredible and I enjoyed listening to you. You will be sadly missed! You sir are a real gentleman
Will
September 22, 2025
RIP Dr Meldrum. You will be missed.
Jeffrey M.
September 22, 2025
You will be missed.
KJ
September 21, 2025
I am very sad to hear of Dr. Meldrum´s passing. I would like to offer my condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues. The world has lost a great man and a great mind.
Dennis P Sigur Sr.
September 21, 2025
I liked Dr. Meldrums research on Bigfoot,
Thought he was pretty knowledgeable in his field.
Sorry to here of his passing.
Bob
September 21, 2025
RIP one of the Greats in Bigfoot research.
Judy Bailey
September 21, 2025
RIP, sir. I enjoyed your presentations.
Rebecca Kelly
September 21, 2025
Dr Jeff meldeum will be sadly missed
Rebecca Kelly
September 21, 2025
Mr Dr Jeff meldeum will be sadly missed in the Bigfoot investigation world he was a great person
Tim Kelly
September 21, 2025
We will miss Dr Jeff meldeum he was a fantastic person he will be sadly missed in the Bigfoot investigation world
Pete Bryski
September 21, 2025
I met Dr. Meldrum on the first Bigfoot Cruise in September 2023. I told him he had a lot of courage for publicly stating his belief that Sasquatch are real. Few people in the scientific community would risk their reputation but then few have seen the evidence that he had.
Deepest condolences to his family and friends.
David Dempster
September 21, 2025
Dr Meldrum, you have been an inspiration to the entire planet I will miss your appearances on many TV shows and other media. It is with profound respect that I remember you and pass my deepest sympathy to your family. Go in peace and may your god go with you.
Katherine Bensonu
September 21, 2025
I´m sorry for the loss of a wonderful life God bless and keep you in the palm of his hand
Olga Cave
September 20, 2025
I just learned of Dr. Meldrum´s passing. Thank you for all your awesome and inspiring work on the subject of Sasquatch. My deepest condolences to the family. You will be sorely missed. Rest in power.
Ed Nulton
September 20, 2025
I just learned about the passing of Dr Jeff Meldrum and I´m saddened by the news. He was an inspiration and good person. My prayers go out for his family and loved ones. Rest in peace Dr Jeff
Fran Jewell
September 20, 2025
I was deeply saddened to hear about Dr. Meldrum. His research was beyond reproach. We are so fortunate to have his work available to all of us to help us understand the possibilities! My warmest and most sincere condolences to his family and his followers.
Jamie Young
September 20, 2025
Just learned we´re the same age, and further enjoyed the knowledge that we became interested in Bigfoot at the same time. Kudos for your work and contribution to this subject. You will continue to be my gold standard for integrity and wisdom for the study of our forest friend.
Terri and Jim Zezza
September 20, 2025
We are so sorry to hear or Dr. Meldrum's passing. His knowledge of Bigfoot was awesome. The family is in our prayers. Rest in Peace Dr. Meldrum we will miss you.
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