Jean VanderMel, 83, of Odon, Indiana, passed away on Sunday, March 31, 2024 at Ketcham Memorial Center in Odon. Jean was born on April 5, 1940 in LaPorte, Indiana to Fred R. and Magdalene K. (Grott) Geisler. Jean married Ralph VanderMel on September 16, 1961.

Jean was a homemaker and retired in 1998 with 21 years of service as a factory worker in metal casting. She enjoyed cooking, gardening and being outdoors.

Family left to cherish the memories of Jean include: son, Jeff VanderMel of Odon; step-son, Rick (Linda) Steele of Ionia, MI; grandchildren, Carmen (Tony) Ferguson, Aaron (Jessica) Steele, Sarah (Justin) Hammond, Hannah (Nate) Gingerich, Lilly (Justin) Fox and their mom, Debbie; five great-grandchildren; one great-great-granddaughter.

Jean was preceded in death by: her parents; her husband, Ralph VanderMel; step-son, Ron Steele; brothers, Robert, Richard, James, Donald and Bernard Geisler; sisters, Lucille Jensen, Irene Nowatzke and Lorraine Hyatte.

Honoring Jean’s wishes, there will be no visitation or services. Jean will be laid to rest in Walnut Hill Cemetery in Odon at a later date.

Arrangements and care have been entrusted to Meng Family Funeral Home in Odon. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family online at www.mengfuneralhome.com.