Michael "Mike" Raymond Melear

Michael "Mike" Raymond Melear was born on August 29, 1952, in Boynton Beach, Florida, and passed away on April 7, 2025, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Mike was predeceased by his parents, TF (Tyler Feno) and Carrilla Lansford Melear, his brother, Larry W. Melear, and his brother-in-law, Hank Bretz.

Mike is survived by his loving wife, Paula Sonnier Melear, and his children, Carrie Melear (Tim Dotson) and Michael (Laura) Melear. He also leaves behind his bonus children, Katye (Shea) Snyder, Emily (Michael) Hargrove, and Charlie (Jade) Sonnier. Mike’s beloved grandchildren, Lucy Dotson, Owen and Daniel Melear, along with his bonus grandchildren Walker and Jackson Barbin, Austen (Hannah) and Wendy Snyder, Emmett Hargrove, and Quinn, Chloe, and Barrett Sonnier, will cherish his memory. Mike is also survived by his father-in-law, Henry Bretz, in-laws Mary and Ronnie Parker, and his former wife, Christie Melear. He was blessed with extended family and friends from near and far.

Mike's life was filled with adventure and encompassed many passions. Raised in South Florida with deep roots in the family dairy business, Mike's career spanned various roles, including deputy sheriff, search and rescue diver, EMT, snow ski instructor, insurance adjuster, real estate developer, FEMA site manager, and oil refinery supervisor. His hobbies were diverse, including the restoration of antique buggies and trucks, scuba diving, parachuting, and especially fishing and hunting. Mike loved music and was once part of a bluegrass band; later in life, he took up the Cajun accordion. He had fond memories of his horse, Smoke, and his German Shepherd, Piper.

A memorial service will be held at HC Alexander Funeral Home, 22 Apple Street, Norco, LA, on Monday, April 14, 2025, with visiting at 10:00 AM followed by services at 11:00 AM. Afterwards, there will be a celebration of life with friends and family. In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation in his memory to Our Lady of the Lake Foundation or St. Joseph Hospice, both in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.