Glen Melby

Glen Melby, 96, of Fergus Falls, passed away Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at Lake Region Healthcare in Fergus Falls surrounded by loved ones.

Glen Marvin Melby was born July 20, 1929, to George and Marie (Nelson) Melby in Ashby. He attended country school before continuing his studies at Dunwoody Institute and later at the FBI Academy.

Glen was enlisted in the US Army Military Police from 1951 to 1953, serving in the Korean War, at Camp Fuji, and in Japan. He was awarded the Korean Service Medal with one Bronze Service Star, the United Nations Service Medal, and the Army of Occupation Medal.

After returning from military service, on July 24, 1954, Glen married Arlene Ryen at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Fergus Falls, MN.

Glen farmed before starting his 30-year law enforcement career as a jailer with Otter Tail County, eventually serving as Sheriff for the last 8 years. Additionally, he served on the Fergus Falls City Council.

He was a member of the Lake Region Pioneer Threshers Association, church choir, Sons of Norway, Gideons International, and the Minnesota Sheriffs' Association. He also enjoyed gardening, farming tractors, attending auctions, and collecting antique cars.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Marie; his sisters, Vivian, Kathryn, and Ruthie; his brother, Frank; and his brothers-in-law, Robert, Dale, and Russ.

Glen is survived by his wife, Arlene; his children, Sharon (Jim) Christenson, Michael, Geoffrey (Vicki), and Julie (Jonathan) Drews; his grandchildren, Jeremy (Melissa), Jenny, Sara, Seth (Mariah), Ryen (Heidi), Anna (Travis), and Rachael (Eric); and his great-grandchildren, Zach, Dalton, Abby, Issabella, Abigail, Liam, Aria, Caleb, and Lily. He is also survived by his brother, Paul (Margie) Melby, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

Service: 11:00 a.m. Saturday, May 30, 2026 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Fergus Falls, with visitation one-hour prior to the service at the church.

Clergy: Reverend Loren Mellum

Interment: Bethlehem Cemetery, Fergus Falls, MN

Arrangements provided by Olson Funeral and Cremation in Fergus Falls.

Online condolences may be sent to www.olsonfuneralhome.com