Melvin Raymond Steck

Melvin Raymond Steck, age 105, of Williamsport, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at home, surrounded by family. He was born October 9, 1920, in Brookville, Ohio the son of the late Herbert and Nora (Keener) Steck.

Melvin was a lifelong learner with a deep curiosity about the world. Though his formal education was limited, he was self-reliant, teaching himself mathematics, reading, and the practical skills needed to repair and maintain his home and farm.

He found joy in learning through television programs on WOSU PBS, National Geographic, the Travel Channel, and the History Channel, which allowed him to explore the world far beyond his farm. Melvin was also a proud Red Cross blood donor, quietly serving others throughout his life.

A forward-thinking farmer, Melvin practiced no-till farming and remained open to new ideas and sustainable practices, including solar farming. Remarkably, he was still farming on his 100th birthday. When he wasn’t working the fields, he could be found in his bib overalls repairing machinery, welding, gardening, or climbing onto roofs and grain bins—always staying busy and doing what he loved until the very end.

Melvin was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Opal R. (Blevins) Steck; daughter, Linda Steck-Honkonen; brother, Earl Steck; and his parents.

He is survived by his daughter, Carol Ann Steck (Curtis) of Cincinnati; son, Doug Steck of Williamsport; granddaughter, Elizabeth (Manos) Semertzides of Cincinnati; and great-grandsons, John and Evan Semertzides of Cincinnati, who affectionately knew him as “GP.”

Private interment will be held at Forest Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made by donating blood to the American Red Cross or by supporting WOSU PBS or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.