Darrell Lee Mellick, 76, of Jackson, Nebraska, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, lovingly surrounded by his family at UnityPoint Health – St. Luke’s Hospital in Sioux City.

A Memorial Service honoring Darrell will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Hubbard, Nebraska, with Pastor Kristi Gaither officiating. Visitation with the family will begin 30 minutes prior to the service. Military honors will be presented at the church following the service. Darrell’s family warmly invites everyone to join them afterward at the Jackson American Legion for a luncheon and time of fellowship.

Darrell, the son of Delbert and Agnes (Stromer) Mellick, was born on August 4, 1950, in Sioux City, Iowa. He grew up in Jackson and graduated from Ponca High School. Following high school, Darrell enlisted in the United States Army, serving his country until his honorable discharge.

On July 14, 1973, Darrell was united in marriage to Janet Marie Olson in Walthill, Nebraska. Together, they raised two daughters, Tina and Tonya, and two sons, Louis and Lucas. Throughout the years, Darrell and Janet also opened their hearts and home to several foster children.

Darrell dedicated more than 50 years to his career at IBP, continuing his work after the company became Tyson Foods. In addition to his longtime career, he operated his own scrap iron business, reflecting his strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit.

Darrell had a knack for making things his own and enjoyed decorating his acreage for the holidays, often going all out with his outdoor displays. This past summer, he created a special tribute celebrating America’s 250th anniversary and honoring those who had served our country. He also enjoyed tinkering around his acreage, scrapping iron, and going to the casino.

A proud member of the Jackson American Legion for nearly 54 years, Darrell valued his military service and the friendships he built through the years. He will be remembered as a hardworking man with a big heart who never met a stranger. Always willing to lend a hand, Darrell had a way of making people feel welcome and was someone others could count on. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, especially his beloved fur buddies, Buck and Mama Kitty, and fur grandbabies, Mike and Molly.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Janet; daughters, Tina Mellick and Tonya (Joe) Ginder and their children, Jarred, Mathew, and Tim and many foster grandkids; son, Louis (Holly) Daniels and their four children, Darrin, Devin, Abilene, and Lexi; son, Lucas; brother-in-law, Raymond Cassidey; sisters-in-law, Peggy Mellick and Reta Mellick; Janet’s sister, Mary, and her husband, Bud Anderson; and many nieces and nephews.

Darrell was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Dave Mellick and Arnold Mellick; and one sister, Charlotte Cassidy.