MEZEL

Jacob Eldon Mezel, 87, of Tilden, IL; born on February 6, 1932 in Walsh, IL; passed away on Tuesday, April 30, 2019 at his home.

Mr. Mezel was a United States Air Force veteran and served during the Korean War after he enlisted in the Air Force reserves and for 32 years worked as an aircraft mechanic at Scott Air Force Base.  He was a member of the Tilden Presbyterian Church.  Jake tried out for the St. Louis Cardinals when he was 18 and although he never played for them he remained a lifelong fan.  Jake also enjoyed golfing.

He was preceded in death by his parents – Jacob and Lorene, nee Roche, Mezel.  One son – Dale Mezel.  One brother – Jim Mezel.  Two sisters – Betty Bluss; Gerry Stevenson.

He is survived by his loving wife – Darlene, nee Hill, Mezel whom he married on January 22, 1955 in Corinth, MS.  His grandchildren – David (Michelle Chandler – fiancé) Mezel of Coulterville, IL; Brian (Chris) Mezel of Pinckneyville, IL; Marcy (James) Specogni of Coulterville, IL.  His great-grandchildren –  Isabella Mezel; Aubree Specogni; Peyton Specogni; Meadow Specogni.  His daughter-in-law – Martha Mezel of Sparta, IL.  One sister – Donna Mezel of O’Fallon, IL.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Hospice of Southern Illinois.

Condolences to the family may be expressed on line at www.heilschuessler.com.

Visitation: Friends may call at Tilden Presbyterian Church on Saturday, May 4, 2019 from 9:30am to 11:00am.

Funeral: Services will be held at Tilden Presbyterian Church on Saturday, May 4, 2019 at 11:00am with Rev. Dennis Hamilton officiating.

Heil-Schuessler & Sinn Funeral Home in Tilden, IL is in charge of arrangements

1. Steve Campbell says:

   01/07/2020 at 5:02 pm

   So sad to hear this news. Jake was my very good friend ever since I met him in 1986 and we worked together when I was stationed at Scott AFB. We had many laughs and enjoyed going to lunch and Cardinal games together. He and Darlene came to Houston to visit us in the early 90’s after I left the Air Force and they were like grandparents to my kids. I was blessed to have such a friend. Darlene….You and Jake are in our prayers. Love you guys.
   Steve & Janis Campbell

   Reply
2. Kathy Ballheimer Coulson says:

   05/02/2019 at 3:42 pm

   so sorry to hear this you both were good bosses to me when I worked for you at Briarwood Inn when it first opened. my thoughts and prayers are added with all others.

   Reply
3. Candy & Jerry Higgerson says:

   05/01/2019 at 4:44 pm

   So sorry Darlene will be praying for you.

   Reply