Melinda Jean Croker

Melinda Jean Croker, 82, passed away peacefully on November 14, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family.

She was born on September 12th, 1943, in Washington, IN to the late Bradford Peek and Margaret Sperback. She graduated from Washington HS in 1961 and later fulfilled a lifelong dream by earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from Purdue University.

Melinda spent many years working at Purdue’s Undergraduate Library, where she enjoyed helping students and colleagues until her retirement.

She is survived by her 3 daughters, Angela (Scott) Tracer of Lafayette, IN, Michelle (David) Wagner of Monticello, IN, and Cheryl (Donald) Staley of Lowell, MI and former husband Jerry Croker of Lafayette. She was a devoted grandmother to Ashlyn (Ryan) Buyer, Lauren (Jerome) Gutterman, Brittany (Scott) Hardy, Sydney and Madisen Tracer, Logan, Kelsey and Olivia Staley. She is also survived by six great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews who each added joy to her life.

She is also survived by her sisters Barbra Wiggs of MO, Carolyn Hubert of GA, Janet (Rick) Osborn and brother Mark Peek of Lafayette. She was preceded in death by her brothers John and Jim Peek.

Melinda’s love of tennis was constant throughout her life. She was a faithful Chicago Cubs fan and enthusiastic follower of Purdue sports. She was a very talented artist and loved sharing her artwork with others. We will forever cherish the memories and her creations that will continue to live on.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Walt’s Pub and Grill in West Lafayette, Indiana, on Saturday, November 29th, from 12–3 p.m. Family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and honor her life.

Disposition is entrusted to Comfort Cremations, 674 N. 36th St., Lafayette, IN 47905 | (866) U-R-Loved | www.comfortcremations.net.