Melvin Thomas Hennessy

As a result of current restrictions on gatherings, we are providing HeartStrings, our online sympathy message where you can upload a photo and write a note or share a memory that will be printed and given to the family. Please click here to send your support. To protect the health and safety of all, services are currently being limited as required by state and local authorities and the CDC. Expressions of sympathy during this time can be left on the condolences page available with the obituary on our website. Please mail memorial cards to Larson Funeral Home, P.O. Box 327, Pelican Rapids, MN 56572 Melvin Hennessy, 86, died Thursday, May 21, 2020, at Frazee Care Center, Frazee, MN. Melvin Thomas was born June 17, 1933, in Minneapolis, MN, to Fred and Katherine (Galvin) Hennessy. Melvin grew up in the Minneapolis area. After graduating from high school, Melvin served in the United States Army. From 1956 until his retirement, Mel worked as a security guard for Midwest Patrol in St. Paul, MN. He was a nationally known professional powerlifter and weightlifter. Jon Meade, a Minnesota sports journalist blogged about Melvin “To this day and especially in this day, Melvin was the textbook champion powerlifter of all time, at least in the bench press… Hail to Mel Hennessy, a true pioneer of athletic power.” Mel became acquainted with Minnesota notables like Vern Gagne and Jesse Ventura. Mel’s best lifts were 571-pound bench press, 690-pound squat, and a 665-pound deadlift in training. He is survived by his Godson Ed Saba. He is preceded in death by his parents. Graveside services will be 11:00 a.m., Monday, June 1, 2020 at Pelican Valley Cemetery, Pelican Rapids, Minnesota