Much like Julius Caesar, Melvin Sears Strohminger passed away on March 15. Unlike Julius Caesar, he died peacefully in his home at the age of 79. Both were great men, though which was greater is only for God to say.

Mel is survived by his wife of 43 years Nancy Morel Strohminger, his son Mitchell, and his daughters Nina and Margot.

Mel was born on April 10, 1943 in Baltimore, a city he would make his home. He was the son of Melvin, an accountant at the B&O Railroad, and Theresa, an executive assistant at Hutzler's department store. A few years later his brother Robert was born. The family lived in West Baltimore during his formative years. Mel was known for his sly sense of humor and sharp wit. He was, as his mother put it, "mischievous."

Mel completed the rigorous Poly A-course at the Baltimore Polytechnic Institute, and wore his class ring with the signature parrot on it throughout his life. He received his Bachelor's degree from Western Maryland College and his Master's degree in sociology and social psychology from the University of Maryland, College Park. He had a longstanding interest in people and people-watching, and was a voracious reader and observer of the human condition. He spent over 30 years as a Social Science Research Analyst at the Social Security Administration. He also taught evening courses in social sciences and management at Johns Hopkins University and the University of Maryland, College Park.

In eighth grade Mel received a fountain pen as a gift from his parents, which sparked a lifelong interest (some might say obsession) with fountain pens. Mel became a leading expert and collector, writing articles for Pen World, Stylus, and other publications.

Mel's appreciation of pens extended more broadly to art and industrial design. He had a healthy collection of wristwatches. And while he was also an enthusiast of automobiles, he did not have quite enough money to collect them.

Mel enjoyed traveling. He visited friends and family (and occasionally pens) in France, Germany, Belgium, and the UK. He and his wife would take frequent road trips closer to home where they would peruse antique shops and artisan crafts and furniture.

In retirement, Mel loved visiting his three children: an economist, a professor, and another professor.

He agreed with George Herbert's proverb: "Living well is the best revenge."

His family will receive friends at Peaceful Alternatives Funeral and Cremation Center, 2325 York Road, Timonium, Maryland 21093 on Thursday, March 23, 2023, from 1 PM to 4 PM. A Celebration of Life service will begin at 4 PM.

In lieu of flowers, please remember Mel with memorial contributions to WYPR – Maryland Public Radio.