Melvin J. O'Hearn

Melvin J. O’ Hearn, age 91, a proud Irishman with a lively spirit and generous heart, passed away on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at Oakridge Garden in Menasha. He was born in Kossuth, WI on May 21, 1934 to the late James and Ruth (Keehan) O’ Hearn. On June 1, 1957 he was united in marriage to Margaret VanLanen.

Known for his love of dancing, especially polka, Melvin rarely missed an opportunity to take the floor, bringing smiles and laughter wherever music played. He was a man of many talents and passions: an accomplished woodworker, a devote gardener, and an animal lover who found peace in caring for all living things. In true hands-on fashion, he brewed his own beer in the basement and became famous among family and friends for his homemade Christmas candy, a tradition that brought sweetness to every holiday season.

In his younger years, Melvin was active in both baseball and football during high school, a testament to his teamwork, discipline, and love of staying busy – traits that followed him throughout his life.

Service to others was central to who he was. He volunteered his time at St. Joseph Food Pantry and was a regular blood donor, always willing to quietly help those in need without seeking recognition.

After retirement, Melvin embraced life fully and enjoyed working at Les Stumpf Ford, where he appreciated staying active and connecting with people. Most of all, he cherished the freedom retirement offered enjoying life at this own pace.

Melvin will be remembered for his warmth, strong work ethic, Irish pride, and the joy he brought to everyday moments. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the traditions he created, and the music that will forever call him back to the dance floor.

Melvin is survived by his wife, Margaret O’ Hearn; children: Scott (Pam) O’ Hearn, Sam (Olga) O’ Hearn, Maureen (Dan) Schueller; grandchildren: Shannon (Nathan) Fieck, Joe (Samantha) O’ Hearn, Monica (Brad) Schroeder, Emma Schueller, Brayden Schueller; great grandchildren: Ethan Gratke, Hayden O’ Hearn, Lucas O’ Hearn, Chloe Schroeder; sister, Leone (Dickie) Zill; and sister-in-law, Mary O’ Hearn. He was further preceded in death by his son, Michael O’ Hearn and siblings: Thomas O’ Hearn, and Joann (Marty) Tadisch.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11:00 am on Thursday, December 18, 2025 at Sacred Heart Parish, 222 E Fremont Street, Appleton. Visitation will take place at the church from 9:00 am until the time of mass. He will be laid to rest at St Joseph Cemetery.

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