Melvyn Dale Cregeen

Melvyn Dale Cregeen, 93, of Perry, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 6, 2026, at the King’s Gardens Campus of Perry Lutheran Homes.

A burial with military honors will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, November 13, 2026, at Violet Hill Cemetery in Perry. A celebration of Melvyn’s life will take place at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 15, 2026, in the Senior Room at the McCreary Community Center in Perry, Iowa. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.caldwellparrish.com.

Melvyn was born on October 30, 1933, in Clearfield, Iowa, to Paul and Margaret (Haynes) Cregeen. He graduated from Coin High School before answering the call to serve his country in the United States Navy. Melvyn was a proud veteran who carried a deep sense of pride in his military service throughout his life. Following his honorable discharge, he continued his education at Upper Iowa University, where he earned a bachelor's degree in History.

On April 21, 1957, Melvyn was united in marriage to Evelyn Varner. Together, they built a life centered around love, family, and the many memories they shared while raising their six children. The couple made their home in Clarinda before moving to Perry in 1970, where they planted their roots and created a lasting home for their family.

Throughout his working years, Melvyn held a variety of positions, including employment at the Clarinda State Hospital, Atlantic Glass Company, Woodward State Hospital and School, and Osmundson's. He also served as a licensed umpire for professional baseball, combining his love of sports with his appreciation for the game.

Melvyn was a man of many interests, but few things brought him greater joy than music. An avid music enthusiast, he spent years building an extraordinary record collection, considered to be one of the largest in the United States. Music was more than a pastime for Melvyn; it was a lifelong passion that brought him countless hours of enjoyment. He also loved sports and enjoyed taking walks, appreciating the simple pleasures of everyday life.

Above all else, Melvyn loved his family. He took tremendous pride in his children, grandchildren, and the generations that followed. His family was an important part of his life, and the love he had for them was something he carried with him always. He leaves behind a lifetime of memories, stories, and a legacy that will continue through those who knew and loved him.

Melvyn is survived by his four children: Terry (Deanna) Cregeen, Jeff (Amanda) Cregeen, Lori (Gary) Titchener, and Debra Cregeen, all of Perry; his grandchildren: Greg (Tabitha) Cregeen of Slater, Zack (Karelly) Cregeen of Perry, Nick Moore of Perry, Jessie (Matt) Conrad of Perry, Jeremiah Cregeen of Ames, Anthony Cregeen of Perry, Josh Freestone of Colorado, Jasmine Freestone of Colorado, Stephanie Madriaga of Perry, Damian Freestone of Waukee, and Chris (Raquel) Cregeen of Des Moines; 13 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings: Marcella Dergan of Omaha, Nebraska, Marilyn (Leon) Bailey of Missouri, and Michael Cregeen of Albuquerque, New Mexico; along with many other relatives and friends who will cherish his memory.

Melvyn was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Evelyn Cregeen; his son, Brian Cregeen; his daughter, Sheryl Freestone; his great-granddaughter, Josie Cregeen; his parents, Paul and Margaret Cregeen; his stepmother, Mona Cregeen; and his brother, Morton Cregeen.

Melvyn lived a long and meaningful life filled with service, hard work, music, sports, and, most importantly, family. While he will be deeply missed, the memories he created, the stories he shared, and the love he gave will remain in the hearts of his family and friends for generations to come.