Melvin Cordes

Melvin E. Cordes Urbana - Melvin E. Cordes, 88, of Normal passed away at 3 a.m. Saturday (Nov. 15, 2025) at the McLean County Nursing Home, Normal. Mel was born Aug. 24, 1937, in Champaign, to Eugene and Aileen (Bialeschki) Cordes. He was preceded in death by his wife, Rita Cordes. Mel was a mechanic at Illinois Power for 30 years. He is survived by four daughters, Jennifer (Terry) Martin, Sheila Dodd, Sheryl (Ben) Fisher and Pam Cordes. He had 14 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by four sons, Bradley Riden, David Cordes, Chris Cordes and Douglas Riden. Mel will be remembered as someone who lived life to the fullest and enjoyed traveling, camping and spending time with his family. He was a gifted storyteller and loved sharing stories of his travels with others. He was a wonderful husband, father, brother and friend who passed on many life lessons. The family will have a celebration of life at a later date. Arrangements were entrusted by Beck Memorial, Bloomington.