Trent W. Mead

Trent Mead, a beloved son, brother, uncle, best man, and incredibly talented chef, passed away peacefully on September 25, 2026. He was 54 years old.

Born on June 8, 1972, in Battle Creek, Michigan, Trent was the second-born son of Arden Mead and the late Carol Mead. Known for his fiery passion in the kitchen and his deeply loyal heart outside of it, Trent lived life to the fullest. To those who knew him best, he wasn’t just a chef; he was a steadfast best friend, a legendary best man, and an invaluable mentor who lifted up everyone around him.

Trent’s culinary talents brought people together, but it was his generous spirit and warmth that made them stay. He will be remembered forever as a man who gave his all to his craft, his friends, and most importantly, his family. Trent will be known for his sense of humor and making people laugh.

He is survived by his loving father, Arden Mead; his brother, Tony Mead and sister-in-law Kara; and his cherished niece and nephew, Macey and Treysen Mead. Trent was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Carol Mead.

Trent leaves behind an abundance of friends, colleagues, and individuals he mentored throughout his life. His presence, his laughter, and his cooking will be greatly missed, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.

A graveside service will be held at Floral Lawn Memorial Gardens at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, October 6, 2026 with a celebration of Trent’s life to immediately follow at 12:00 p.m., Tuesday, October 6 at the Vale Street Venue. Contributions in memory of Trent may be made to the Trent Mead Memorial Scholarship Fund, Southern Michigan Bank and Trust, 1110 West Michigan Avenue, Marshall, MI 49068. Arrangements by the Farley Estes Dowde Funeral Home & Cremation Care. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.