Daniel Howard Mielke

Daniel Howard Mielke, Jr., 71, of Montgomery, Alabama, died Monday, November 17, 2025, surrounded by his wife, children, and sister.

Dan was born February 6, 1954, in Park Ridge, Illinois, to Daniel Howard Mielke, Sr., and Joanne Martin Mielke. He was raised in Eureka, Illinois, where he graduated from Eureka High School. After high school, Dan attended Gem City College in Quincy, Illinois, where he studied to become a horologist and certified gemologist.

He worked for 40 years as a Master Watch and Clock Maker, as well as a jeweler, serving local communities in Pekin, Illinois; Selma, Alabama; and Montgomery, Alabama, along with customers throughout the Southeast. Dan was a devoted husband, loving father, and dedicated friend who enjoyed camping, baseball, reading, history, and spending time with the people he loved most.

Dan was preceded in death by his son, Patrick Joel; his father, Daniel Howard Mielke, Sr.; his mother, Joanne Martin Mielke; and his father- and mother-in-law, Clyde and Ruby Campbell.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Yvonne Campbell Mielke; his children Nicholas A. Mielke (Laura), Emily Ledford (David), and Andrew D. Mielke (April); his sister Nancy L. Mielke; and his brother Bruce D. Mielke. He is also survived by his 11 grandchildren: Brea Ledford, Harper Mielke, Lily Mielke, Sloan Ledford, Landon Mielke, Wren Mielke, Reese Mielke, Izzy Ledford, Laura Kelly Mielke, Ryker Ledford, and Everett Mielke.

An active member of Woodland Methodist Church Dan enjoyed supporting his community through service projects and singing in the choir. He will be remembered for his gentle spirit, meticulous craftsmanship, and unwavering love for his family. 

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday December 7, 2025 2:00 pm at Woodland Methodist Church 4428 Wallahatchie Rd. Pike Road, AL 36064.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to your local community blood bank or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.