INDIAN LAND, SC – Melvin “Mel” Bailey Marcedes, age 88, peacefully entered heaven on April 25, 2026. He was born on November 15, 1937, in South Bend, Indiana, and was the devoted son of Bailey and Frances Marcedes.

After attending Purdue University, Mel proudly served six years in the United States Navy. He then spent more than 50 years as a union brick mason, following in his father’s footsteps and taking great pride in his craft.

Mel found joy in the things he loved, including coin collecting and hunting for bargains at garage sales and auctions. After retiring, he and Janet moved to South Carolina to be closer to family. For 19 years in Sun City, he enjoyed friendships and activities through the tailgaters, bocce, coin, hiking, kayaking, pinochle, euchre, and table tennis clubs.

For over 50 years, Mel treasured summers on Indian Lake in Michigan, and in recent years he found that same peace spending time with his kids and grandkids on Lake Keowee. Being near the water was always one of his greatest joys.

Mel was known for his memorable one-liners, including “Closed mouth catches no flies,” “Do you have a hole in your paddle?” and the family favorite, “Take your time but hurry.” His humor, warmth, and gentle spirit will be deeply missed.

Mel is survived by his loving and faithful wife of nearly 63 years, Janet (Mueller) Marcedes, his children Brian Marcedes and Linda Rush (Ted), and the grandchildren he adored: Kevin Marcedes, Elizabeth (Marcedes) Russell (Whittaker), Morgan Rush, and Matthew Rush (Lindsay).

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorial donations made in Mel’s honor online to the Alzheimer's Association or by mail to Providence Care Hospice, 500 Lakeshore Parkway, Rock Hill, SC 29730.

The family will be having a private ceremony the morning of Sunday, May 3rd, followed by a celebration of life gathering at 2pm for friends and family located at, The Lodge in the Sun City Carolina Lakes community, Indian Land, South Carolina.