Daniel H. Mellen Sr., age 67, of Grand Rapids, MN passed away on Thursday, March 28, 2024, at Essentia Health-St. Mary's in Duluth, MN.

Daniel was born in 1956 to Clinton and Mary Jane Mellen in Grand Rapids, MN, where he attended local area schools and graduating from Grand Rapids High School.

After high school, he hiked around the United States meeting Debbie in Wisconsin, they were united in marriage in 1975, together they had one son, Jason. Daniel then enlisted in the US Air Force in 1977 where he served for three years on active duty, and three years in the reserves. He worked various jobs at his military career, including his favorite, at Janicke's Bakery. Daniel then met Linda in Wisconsin and they married in 1982, and together they had two children, Daniel Jr. and Sandra. The couple settled down in Wawina.

Daniel loved everyone, especially his grandchildren, He enjoyed talking and sharing stories, which were all true as he told them hundreds of times over and over. Daniel started his mornings by sending everyone a good morning emoji and drawing pictures while drinking his morning coffee. He enjoyed painting, drawing, fishing, hiking and "picking up chicks". Daniel was everyone's friend and will be greatly missed by all that knew him.

He is preceded in death by his parents. Daniel is survived by his children, Jason, Daniel Jr. and Sandra Mellen; sisters, Katherine and Patricia; brothers Clayton and Michael; 8 grandchildren; two great grandchildren; and many extended family and friends.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, April 13, 2024, at the Marble Town Hall, 302 Alice Ave, Marble, MN, beginning at 1:00 PM and lasting until 4:00 PM. Burial will be at on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at 1:00 PM at Wawina Cemetery, Wawina, MN, with full Military Honors.