Keith C. Melzer

Keith Melzer, age 81, of Appleton, passed away peacefully at home after a long battle with cancer on October 14, 2025.

Born on February 19, 1944, Keith was the son of the late John and Adelle (Cumber) Melzer. He graduated from Xavier High School in 1962. On September 25, 1963, he married Beverly Jahnke and together they shared 62 years of marriage.

Keith began his construction career at the age of 20 as a laborer for A.W. Jeske. He spent much of his professional life with C.R. Meyer in Oshkosh, where he worked as a laborer, carpenter, and eventually Field Superintendent. In 1973, he joined the Carpenter’s Union and served on the Executive Board for 16 years, demonstrating his dedication to the trade and his fellow workers. He retired in 2004 after a long and respected career.

Keith found great joy in spending time outdoors, especially hunting and fishing with his boys. He had a love for gardening and took pride in his plants and watching them flourish. After retiring, he and Bev enjoyed traveling together, spending many winters in Arizona and Texas. While in Rockport, Texas, Keith discovered a new passion for wood carving. He became a member of the Mid-Wis Chippers Carving Club and enjoyed showcasing his work at various shows, earning many ribbons for his craftsmanship and creativity.

Keith is survived by his wife Beverly; two sons, Timothy (Donna) Melzer and Jeffrey Melzer; two daughters, Rebecca Pastore and Sarah (Eli) Lane; and daughter-in-law, Carrie Melzer.

He was a proud grandfather to Shannon (Evan) Kenney; and Joshua and Matthew Pastore. He was also blessed with three great-grandchildren: Bennett, Lennox, and Carson. Keith is further survived by his sisters-in-law, Eunice Melzer and Sharon King, and his brother-in-law, Steven Jahnke. He will be fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Keith was preceded in death by his son, Andrew Melzer; his brother, John Melzer; his brother and sister-in-law, LeRoy and Patricia Melzer; his sister and brother-in-law, Val and Richard Kranzusch; and his in-laws, Sandra and Norman Wagner.

Keith and his family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to everyone at the Ascension Cancer Center and St. Croix Hospice for their compassionate care and support during his treatment and final days. Their kindness made a meaningful difference during a difficult time.

There will be a remembrance gathering in May 2026. Details to follow.