Ronald James Mellem

Ronald James Mellem, 77, of Richland Center, died on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, at his home surrounded by his family. He was born on May 7, 1947, in Viroqua the son of Clifford and Barbara (Irons) Mellem. On March 26, 1966, Ron was united in marriage to Peg Maly in Boaz. He worked at the Richland Center Foundry, farmed and helped build the power plant in Lansing. Ron later went to work at Schwans. He spent many years as a trucker, driving to every state in the continental United States except Maine. After his retirement he drove the Amish for 17 years. Ron owned Mellem's Fish House for 10 years until he sold it to his daughter Brenda. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, traveling and doing word searches. Ron loved watching the birds and his hostas.
Ron is survived by his wife of 58 years Peg Mellem of Richland Center;
Children: Brenda (Steve) Walther of Richland Center,
Brad (Wendi) Mellem of Monticello,
Chris (Erick) Gulsrud of Richland Center,
Joe (Lisa) Mellem of New Glarus,
Rob Mellem of Mazomanie,
Pam (Mark) McCauley of Richland Center;
20 Grandchildren;
22 Great-grandchildren;
Brother and sisters: Carol Alderman of Viroqua,
Roger Mellem of Viroqua,
Ruth (Tim) Wagner of Prairie du Chien;
Nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Ron was preceded in death by his parents, brother-in-law Archie Alderman and sister-in-law Mary Ann Mellem.
The family would like to thank the Ortman Clinic in Canistota, South Dakota, the Gunderson Clinic and Agrace Hospice for the love and care for Ron over the past several years.
Visitation will be held at the Pratt Memorial Chapel on Saturday, June 29, 2024, from 10:00 AM until 1:00 PM. The Pratt Funeral and Cremation Service is assisting the family with their arrangements.