Melvin Stolquist

In Loving Memory of Melvin (Mel) Raymond Stolquist Jr. August 16, 2025 ' Age 85 Brooklyn Center, Minnesota

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Melvin (Mel) Raymond Stolquist Jr., who slipped quietly away in his sleep on August 16, 2025, at the age of 85, surrounded by close family. Mel was a true character-always ready with a story. He loved deer hunting, fishing, camping, and golf. Known for never throwing anything away, he was always determined to fix it instead. In his younger years, Mel was a hard worker who didn't always follow the rules-because he believed they didn't apply to him.

Born in Buffalo New York and raised in Idaho, Mel attended Pacific Lutheran University, the College of Idaho, and graduated from the University of Minnesota with a BSBA. He married Janet Reopelle on June 1, 1968. Over the years, Mel worked at Honeywell, Control Data, the Star Tribune, and Embers. After Embers he moved on to manage several other restaurants. He retired from restaurant management and got his realtor's license. In 2000, he and Janet moved to Florida to be closer to their daughter, where he worked at Top of the World until retirement.

In 2011, due to health reasons, Mel returned to Minnesota to live with his son and daughter-in law Sara. As he aged, he remained deeply engaged with current events, and his stories became even more legendary. 

Mel's Passions:

Photography: He loved capturing landscapes, flowers, and animals-a passion he shared with his son. 

Music: Mel loved to sing. Karaoke nights were a favorite, and he would practice for hours to perfect each song.

Storytelling: His tales-whether true or wildly embellished-left lasting impressions on everyone who heard them.

Proceeded By His parents. Melvin Raymond Stolquist Sr. and Anne (Rhen) Stolquist, Wife Janett (Reopelle)Stolquist, Five great grandchildren.

Survived By Son: Melvin Raymond Stolquist III, his wife Sara, and ex-wife Karen, Grandchildren: Derek, (Tyler), Andrew, Aden, Jack, (Lindsie), Tami, Bret, (Andrea), Dawn, (Joe) and Karl, Great-Grandchildren: 11, Daughter: Missi, her husband Roger Miller Grandchildren: Jakob, Bindi

Celebration of Life Date: October 11, 2025 Time: 11:00 AM Location: 5813 Aldrich Avenue North, Brooklyn Center, MN

We find comfort in knowing that Mel's legacy lives on through the lessons he taught, the love he gave, and the memories we will cherish forever.