WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Mr. Kasimir “Casey” Melnyk, age 67, of Three Rivers, passed away peacefully in Kalamazoo, MI. on Sunday, May 12, 2013 after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born on November 4, 1945 in Mitterteich, Germany, the son of Nikolaj and Anna (Katschmar) Melnyk. The family immigrated to Chicago in 1956.
In 1959 the family moved to Marinette, Wisconsin where they bought a dairy farm. He was drafted into the US Army in 1966 and volunteered for service in Vietnam. He was wounded twice during his tour and received two Purple Hearts for his bravery. He was employed since 1976 for General Motors at Hydro Matic Corp., later American Axle, before retiring.
On January 25, 1969 Casey was united in marriage to the love of his life, Mary (Faucett) Melnyk. Together they raised two children, Daniel (Teri) Melnyk, of Constantine, MI., and Sarah (Evan) Erskine, of Hamlake, MN.; two grandchildren, Kasey and Hannah. Along with his wife, children and grandchildren he is survived by one sister Sophie Glab, of Chicago, IL., three brothers, Roman (Anna) Melnyk, of Chicago, Walter Melnyk, Racine, WI., and John (Barbara) Melnyk, of Oscoda, MI. Several nieces and nephews and extended family.
He enjoyed hunting, fishing and spending time with his family.
The family will receive friends from 4-8 p.m. on Wednesday, May 15, 2013 at the Hohner Funeral Home.
Funeral Services will be held 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 16, 2013 at the First United Methodist Church with Pastor Robert Nystrom officiating.
Interment will be held at Fort Custer National Cemetery at a later date.
Memorials may be donated to the Heartland Hospice of Kalamazoo 8075 Creekside Drive, Suite #120, Portage, MI. 49024. Envelopes available at the funeral home. Online condolences may be left at www.hohnerfh.com.
