Daniel “Mel” Geary

Oak Park, Illinois

Daniel Joseph “Mel” Geary, 64, passed away Monday, June 23, 2025 in Schaumburg, Illinois.

Daniel, affectionately known as “Mel” to everyone who knew and loved him, was truly one of a kind.

He attended Oak Park High School and lived life on his own terms, filling every moment with laughter, music, and adventure.

He was a passionate bird watcher and a dedicated gardener, known for growing the best tomatoes and jalapeños in the neighborhood.

An avid motorcycle enthusiast, Mel took great pride in his beloved low rider Harley Davidson, often hitting the road with the wind in his hair and rock and roll in his soul. His playlist was legendary: Led Zeppelin, Rush, and Steely Dan blaring through the speakers as he rode with joy and freedom.

A diehard Chicago sports fan, Mel somehow managed to cheer for both the Cubs and the White Sox and never missed a Bears game.

Animals were drawn to him with an unexplainable ease, whether it was a stray cat or a nervous dog, they all seemed to find comfort in his presence.

He was the life of every gathering, always cracking jokes, pulling harmless pranks, and making everyone laugh until they cried. His sense of humor, contagious laugh, and ability to bring joy to any room will be missed more than words can say. He was, in every way, unapologetically Mel.

Loving father of Taryn; beloved brother of Mary Kate (Blair); cherished uncle of Sarah and Nickalas; adored great-uncle of Vincenzo and Franco; beloved son-in-law of Karen Krebsbach; dear friend and neighbor to many.

He is preceded in death by his parents Thomas and Carolyn Geary, and Kila Geary. He will be missed by all those whose lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation made in Mel’s honor to the Wild Bird Sanctuary.

Published by The Minot Daily News, July 8, 2025.