Melvin Simek

Melvin Simek, age 97, passed away on March 12, 2026, at Firesteel Healthcare Center in Mitchell.

Born on May 28, 1928, in Tyndall, South Dakota, to Thomas and Laura (Plattner) Simek, Melvin graduated from Tyndall High School in 1946. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in mortuary science in Chicago, served in the Korean War from 1951 to 1953, and later received a bachelor of science in agriculture from South Dakota State University in 1958 and a master’s degree in education in 1965. He married Arlene Nelson on December 26, 1956.

Melvin dedicated 35 years to the Farmers Home Administration, retiring as district director. A longtime member of Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Mitchell, he also served on the Salvation Army board, belonged to the Lions Club, and was a charter member of the Tyndall VFW Post 6895.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Arlene, and his infant son Patrick. Melvin is survived by his son Jeffrey (Nancy) Simek of Las Vegas, Nevada; grandchildren Laura, Jennifer, and Vincent Simek; and great-grandchildren Brantley and Peter Simek.