Melvern A. Ayers, Jr.

Melvern Albert Ayers, Jr., age 60, of Perrysburg, Ohio, passed away on Thursday, September 8, 2022.

Mel was born on March 8, 1962 to Dr. Melvern Ayers, Sr. and Barbara (Heller) Ayers in Detroit, Michigan. He was a proud graduate of St. John's Jesuit High School in Toledo, Ohio, where he gained many lifelong friends. He was an avid Buckeyes fan, and he graduated from The Ohio State University with a bachelor's degree in education.

Mel explored several fields throughout his career, but he found his life's calling as a restaurateur. With the support of family and his former wife, Barb Ayers, Mel became co-founder and co-owner of a restaurant group, which includes local favorites such as Nagoya Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi, Ciao Bella, Basil Pizza and Wine Bar, and The 'Que Barbecue and Brew.

Mel was most known for his ability to gather people together. His restaurants inspired countless family traditions of special celebration meals. Friends and family will remember coming together for shared adventures, like fishing trips to the Florida Keys, or the beloved Labor Day golf tournament he orchestrated for nearly 30 years. Mel was so caring and kind that his loved ones have been left with a big hole in their hearts.

Mel is survived by his mother, Barbara Ayers; his siblings, Melanie (Paul) Calevro, Melissa Weis, Melinda (Phil Crusan) Ayers, and James (Elise) Ayers II; his former wife, Barb Ayers; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends he made throughout life's journey. He was preceded in death by his father, Dr. Melvern Ayers, Sr., and his nephew, Mark Weis.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 15, 2022 from 3-8 p.m. and Friday, September 16, 2022 from 3-8 p.m. at Walker Funeral Home at 222 E. South Boundary Street, Perrysburg, Ohio (419-874-3133). The funeral will be held on Saturday, September 17, 2022 at 10 am at Zoar Lutheran Church, with burial to follow at Lake Township Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made in Mel's name to St. John's Jesuit High School in Toledo or The Humane Society of Ottawa County in Port Clinton, Ohio.