Melvin W. Ottensmeyer, 76, passed away on June 22, 2026, at SSM St. Clare Hospital in Fenton, MO of natural causes.
Mel was born on August 2, 1949, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Melvin B. and Henrietta V. (Moll) Ottensmeyer. He graduated from Northwest High School in 1967 and went on to earn his degree from the St. Louis College of Pharmacy.
Mel dedicated most of his professional life to serving his community as a retail pharmacist in Decatur, IL.
Those who knew Mel understood that he was a man of contrasts. Frugal and practical by nature, he could still surprise people with acts of kindness and a genuinely warm heart. He often enjoyed solitude, yet he was equally capable of striking up conversations and talking with anyone who crossed his path. His unique personality made him memorable to those who knew him.
Mel was preceded in death by his parents and his dear friend, Karen.
He is survived by his sister, Janice Schroeder; his nephews, Steve and Kyle Moul; his lifelong friend, Conant Braun; his stepdaughters, Jessica Michael and Amanda Muthleb; and many beloved stepgrandchildren.
A memorial visitation will be held at Kutis Funeral Home, 5255 Lemay Ferry Rd, Mehlville, MO on July 25, 2026 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts can be sent to the Good Samaritan Inn or the SSM Health Foundation.
Janice
I was sorry to hear of the loss of your brother Melvin.
You may not remember me, but I was good friends with Mel when you and your family were living in Omaha. We attended St Paul Lutheran School and rode the school bus together. It was sad for me the day he and your family moved to St Louis. I remember the day he left and your family followed the school bus for a short distance before Mel and I waved good bye for the last time. Mel sent me a post card from St Louis but we eventually lost contact with each other. We were just kids then, and it is sad to hear that he is gone. I was on my computer this morning when his name popped into my head (very strange) and I saw the sad news.
Again, I am truly sorry for your loss.