Obituary for Melvin Dean Schiller

Melvin Dean Schiller, passed away on October 6, 2022 at the age of 96 in Westerville, Ohio. Among his many past residences were Saline, Michigan, Durham, North Carolina and Loudon, Tennessee.

Born in Canton, Michigan to John and Theo (Swegles) Schiller, he was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Barabara (Kelly) Schiller of 45 years and later his wife Ceree (Schraw) Schiller of 23 years.

A graduate of Detroit’s Mackenzie High School, Dean enlisted in the army at the age of 17. During his military career, he earned a Bachelor’s Degree from University of Georgia and a Master’s at George Washington University. His commitment to service led him to become a veteran of both World War II and the Korean War, as well as being an advisor in Thailand during the Vietnam War. Among his numerous awards are the Legion of Merit, Purple Heart and Combat Infantryman Badge. After 30 years of distinguished service in the Infantry, Dean retired from the U.S. Army at the rank of Colonel.

Following retirement, Dean joined the American Legion, became a small business owner and played an active role in Kiwanis. Fully retiring, he further pursued his love of golf, boating and fishing.

Dean is survived by his three children, daughter Linda Clay, son Dean (Kathy) Schiller, and son Craig (Cheryl) Schiller; his sister Betty Hotchkiss, eight grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren; and stepchildren Rita Eriksen, Cynthia Schwanz, Ann Marie Schraw, Ceree Houghton, Thomas Schraw, Steven Schraw and Richard Schraw.

Funeral services and interment in Arlington National Cemetery will be at a date and time to be determined. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to your local not-for-profit hospice provider.