Jason Melnick

(From Ruschmeier-Smith Funeral Home)

Jason Gregory Melnick, 51 years old, of Milan, Missouri, passed away Wednesday, November 13, 2024.

Jason was born April 18, 1973, in Yorktown, Pennsylvania. He is survived by: His parents, Steve and Marianna Belcher of Joplin, Missouri; three daughters, Jaden Melnick of Springfield, Missouri, Tyne Melnick of Kirksville, and Aubrey Melnick of Kirksville; a brother, T.J. Belcher of Joplin; a sister, Andrea Seutter of Port Richey, Florida; Aunt and Uncle, Billye and Ron McCrary of Maryville, Missouri; a niece, Finley Belcher of Joplin; a nephew, Eric Belcher of Joplin; several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Jason was preceded in death by: Grandparents, Dorothy and Jr. Belcher and his birth father, Greg Melnick.

Jason grew up in Joplin, and then attended Northwest Missouri State, receiving his Master’s Degree. While at Northwest he was on the track team and played football as a wide receiver and punt returner. He received numerous awards and set multiple records while there. He also became the Graduate Assistant Coach to the football team a year they won the championship.

After graduation, Jason went to Germany, playing Pro American Football for a year, before moving back to the states where he taught and coached many teams. He taught at Maysville, Maryville, Schuyler, Kirksville, Smithville, and in Milan where he coached, taught, and was an administrator. Jason loved running and football; he was dedicated to his athletes.

Jason’s wishes were to be cremated and a visitation for Jason will be held 5:00 to 7:00 PM, Wednesday, November 20, 2024, at Ruschmeier-Smith Funeral Home in Milan.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Jaden Melnick to go towards a scholarship for Milan student athletes.