Melvin J. Pies

Melvin John Pies, age 82, of Sioux City, IA passed away on Monday, January 27, 2025, at the Embassy Rehab and Care Center in Sgt. Bluff, IA. Born on March 10, 1942, in Ortley, SD, he was the son of Nicholas and Julia (DeMaris) Pies. Melvin spent his early years growing up in various communities throughout South Dakota and graduated from Elk Point High School. Following his education, he proudly served in the United States Army until his honorable discharge.

Melvin's life was marked by a dedicated career as a truck driver, culminating in his retirement from Bridgeport Corporation. He met the love of his life, Sandra "Sandy" K. Mercure, at the Thacker Rollerink in 1962. The couple enjoyed two years of dating before being married on December 5, 1964, at the St. Boniface Rectory, officiated by Father Salvatore. Together, they welcomed five children into their lives, creating a loving family that became the centerpiece of his world.

As a person, Melvin was known for his strong-willed nature, a stubborn streak, and a quirky sense of humor that endeared him to many. Above all, he was a loving and caring individual who always offered a helping hand to those in need. His interests included fishing, ice fishing, hunting, and bowling, pursuits that brought him much joy throughout his life.

Melvin is survived by his five children: Brenda (Curtis) Kubly of Sioux City, Denine (Steven) Jankowski of Ocala, FL, Teresa (Rodney) Schroder of Carthage, NC, Nathaniel (Brenda) Pies of Sioux City, and Tina (Jim) Cook of Sioux City. He cherished his family and leaves behind eleven grandchildren: Audrey, Kala, Tony, Cassandra, Edward, Andrew, Brandon, Dustin, Emily, Zachary, and Rachel. Additionally, he is survived by three siblings: Robert Pies of Akron, IA, Carol Smith of Fremont, NE, and Dale (Cheryl) Pies of Vale, SD, as well as one sister-in-law, Fern Pies of Farmington, UT, along with several nieces and nephews.

Melvin was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sandy, his parents, and seven siblings: Nicholas (Sylvia) Pies, Lloyd Pies, Betty (John) Strong, Albert (Marge) Pies, Edward Pies, Grace (Virgil) Onnen, and Diane (Dan) Dawdy, and his in-laws Carol Pies and Doug Smith.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, February 2, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Meyer Brothers Morningside Chapel in Sioux City, Iowa. This will be followed by a funeral service on Monday, February 3, 2025, at 10:00 AM, also at Meyer Brothers Morningside Chapel. Burial with military honors will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery.