On Sunday, January 11, 2026, Melissa Block, beloved mother, wife, and sister, passed away in her sleep at the age of 74.

Melissa was born on April 1, 1951, to Robert Dale Miller and Elizabeth Solum Miller in Chicago, IL. The daughter of a local businessman and community leader, she grew up in Portage WI along with her siblings, Darcy, Leigh, Erik and Lincoln. She obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Soil Sciences from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

On September 11, 1982, while working at the University, Melissa married Michael George Block. Together they had two extraordinary sons, Samuel and Alexander. The family moved several times for career opportunities and eventually settled in Minnetonka, MN. Melissa and Michael delighted in family dinners, outings, and all the joys of having their two sons and their partners living nearby.

In 2003 she started working as a part-time sales associate for the All Seasons Wild Bird Stores, a local retail business. She was promoted to the Wayzata store manager in 2010 and shaped the nature of the business for many years. She retired in 2016 but stayed on as a marketing consultant for several years. Melissa enjoyed educating others with her enthusiasm, knowledge and infectious smile.

Melissa had many interests including gardening, birdwatching, reading, entertaining family, and adding creative touches to the family home. She especially enjoyed being with her family and friends.

Melissa was preceded in death by Robert and Elizabeth Miller. She is survived by her beloved husband Michael, sons Samuel (Claire) and Alex (Katie and Hannah), and siblings Darcy Miller, Leigh Miller, Erik Miller and Lincoln Miller.

Celebrations of Life are being planned for both Minnesota and Wisconsin.

Messages of condolence may be sent to the Cremation Society of Minnesota.