Melvin "Mel" L. Dorland

Melvin "Mel" L. Dorland, 89, of Sycamore passed away surrounded by his family at home on Tuesday, November 19, 2024. He was born June 25, 1935 in Ashton, IL, the son of Mac Dorland and Mae Van Kuren.

Mel's life is a testament to his dedication and passions. Married to Arlene A. Jackson since February 25, 1956, they built a life filled with love and adventure. As a skilled tradesman, Mel owned and operated Dorland Plumbing and Heating with Arlene. His commitment to his craft was evident in his loyal customers and his 66 years in the plumbers and pipefitters unions, culminating with his retirement in 2005.

One of Mel's most profound passions was his love of racing. He built and drove a car in the 60's and 70's, setting track records at multiple dirt tracks in the Midwest. Dubbed Movin' Mel in his Clay Smoker, he was track champion at Bob-Jo Speedway in 1968. His enthusiasm for racing stayed with him for his entire life.

Mel took immense pride in his beautiful back yard, where he created an oasis with ponds, waterfalls, and structures. He stayed busy caring for the fish and turtles, planting and tending flowers, and he was always adding a new component to the landscape. He loved hosting backyard parties and built a rotisserie machine to cook 80 of the "best damn chickens in DeKalb County." In addition to maintaining his yard, he enjoyed building things in his workshop, especially for his great- granddaughter Quinn. Quinn, and his two granddaughters Danni and Kelli were the light of his life.

Mel stayed active and busy in retirement right until the end, including his daily trips to Sully's for coffee, then back for lunch. Hunting expeditions with his closest friends were priceless memories. He also cherished the summer days he spent at Lake Mills with family and friends. Known as The Mayor in Topel's Lakeside Park, you could find him zipping around on his golf cart.

In addition to his personal hobbies, Mel was active in his community, holding memberships in various local organizations including the DeKalb Elks Club, the DeKalb Moose Lodge, and DeKalb Columbus Club, and he was a member of the former DeKalb Eagles Club. Mel's legacy is one of hard work, devotion to family, loyalty to friends, and a vibrant community spirit – an inspiring example of a life well-lived. He was truly a legend in his time.

Survivors include: wife Arlene Dorland of Sycamore. Daughters; Jacque Dorland of DeKalb, Cathy (Mark) Marion of Virgil, and Gayle (Rich) Thompson of Sycamore. Granddaughters; Danni (Steve Thomas) Marion of Hinckley and Kelli (Greg Jr) Sullivan of Sycamore. Bonus granddaughter; Brooke (Nick) Rowland of Sycamore. Great-grandchildren; Quinn Thomas, Jackson and Tyler Sullivan, and Wells Rowland. Brother Ron (Karen) Judah of Oregon, IL and sister Vicki Judah of Florida. Sister-in-law Nancy (Gene) Miller, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother Mae (Paul Judah), his brother Dee (Sharon) Dorland, brother-in-law Ronald "Red" (Donna) Jackson, and sisters-in-law Virginia (Lolly) Burnett and Helen (Dave) Meadowcraft.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, November 26, 2024 from 4:00-7:00 pm at Finch Funeral Home in DeKalb, followed by a short service. Private burial will be Wednesday, November 27, 2024 at Elmwood Cemetery in Sycamore. Memorials can be made to the family to be established at a later date. Arrangements were entrusted to Finch Funeral Home, 310 Oak St., DeKalb, IL 60115, 815-758-3841. A celebration of life will be held Sunday, December 1, 2024 starting at 12:00 pm at the DeKalb Columbus Club, 1336 E Lincoln Hwy, DeKalb, IL 60115.