Melvin "Mel" DeWeerd

1934 - 2025

Mel DeWeerd
11/11/1934 - 10/31/2025
Melvin "Mel" DeWeerd
November 11, 1934 – October 31, 2025
Mel DeWeerd passed away peacefully with his wife Pam by his side on October 31, 2025, just shy of 91 years old. Born on Veterans Day in Hudsonville, Michigan, Mel liked to say that when he was a boy, he thought the national holiday was for his birthday - a story that always brought a smile to those who knew him.
The youngest of four children, Mel endured great tragedy at just eight years old when his father, older brother, and uncle drowned in a fishing accident. Two years later, he faced another challenge when struck by a car while riding his bicycle, breaking both femurs. He spent a full year in the hospital, confined to traction, and was told he would never walk again. But through perseverance and prayer, Mel recovered. Within six months of returning home, his doctor saw his muscles growing stronger and told him he no longer needed crutches - and Mel walked once more. That experience shaped the quiet strength, humility, and gratitude that defined his life.
While attending high school and later Hope College, Mel worked at his late father's garage, repairing radiators and pumping gas. His early love for cars and people naturally led him into sales - first selling school furniture for American Seating, where his Alaska territory took him across remote villages by bush plane and even to nights spent sleeping in post offices.
Mel married his first wife shortly after college, and together they had two sons, Todd and Traig, whom he adored. After several years in Portland and Seattle, that marriage ended in divorce. Mel then settled in Marin County, California, where he began a new chapter both professionally and personally. At this time, he worked in sales for Herman Miller, selling office furniture.
In 1968, on a blind date, Mel met the love of his life, Pam Stoddard. Two years later they married and shared 55 years of deep devotion, laughter, and adventure. Mel joined SICO, Inc., selling portable dance floors, tables, and stages to hotels, convention centers, and colleges - a role that perfectly suited his charm, quick wit, and talent for connecting with people. He was known to be a good listener with the unique skill of being incredibly engaged, coupled with practical advice on how to help. He retired at age 60, proud of a career built on integrity and genuine relationships.
Mel and Pam made their homes in Mill Valley, Kentfield, and eventually Stinson Beach, where they enjoyed retirement together with their beloved dachshunds - all with names beginning with "P." He loved collecting antiques, attending the opera, and managing his real estate investments with care and pride. Together they shared a lifetime of travel and adventure, exploring the world from Africa to China, Europe, South America, and beyond. They were true partners - deeply devoted and forever grateful for the love they found.
A dedicated husband, father, and grandfather, Mel was known for his humor, humility, and kindness. He had a generous heart and an unwavering loyalty to the people he loved. He was a gifted listener, an astute investor, and a man who found beauty and joy in life's simple and grand moments alike.
Mel is survived by his loving wife, Pam DeWeerd; sons Todd DeWeerd (Melissa) and Traig Van Dyke (Mildred); granddaughter Jena DeWeerd; in laws Joyce DeWeerd as well as Helen Chadsey, Jeff VanDyke (Heidi); nieces and nephews in Michigan; and nieces Cori McClaughry and Wendy Blymyer, nephew Scott Stoddard. He is also survived by in-laws Dee Stoddard, Kirk & Sue Stoddard and his devoted caregiver Sam Naqase, who cared for him with compassion for nearly five years. Many thanks to Hospice by the Bay who supported Mel and his family.
There will be a memorial to celebrate his life on January 31, 2026 at 2pm at the Stinson Beach Community Center.
For those who wish to honor Mel, he would have appreciated a donation to the Stinson Beach Volunteer Fire Department, whose care and dedication meant so much to him. Donations can be made at stinsonbeach-fire.org/firestation.