Jerry Melchi, 72

Jerry Ray Melchi, age 72, of Kalamazoo, passed away Wednesday, May 19, 2021 at his home.
He was born Aug. 31, 1948 in White Pigeon to Chester and Lilian (Whisler) Melchi.
Jerry graduated from White Pigeon High School and received his Tool & Die certification from Glen Oaks Community College.
He had been a resident of the Sturgis area most of his life and has lived in Kalamazoo the past 20 years.
He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving during the Vietnam War.
On March 14, 1986 he married Anne Hoskins in Sturgis.
He had been employed by Burr Oak Tool & Gauge for over 24 years, Haulmark Trailers in Bristol for several years, and Eastern Hills Golf Course in Kalamazoo.
His favorite past time was playing golf.
Surviving are his wife: Anne; daughter: Tina (Thomas) Clipfell of Caledonia, MI; grandchildren: Grant (Lucy) Clipfell, Olivia (Alex) Holzgen, Addison Clipfell, and Breton Clipfell; sisters: Judy (Gary) Willard of White Pigeon, and Janice (Richard) Whetzel of Wolcottville, IN; sisters-in-law: Margaret (Wayne) Erickson, Carol (Tim) Sammons, Sarah (Barney) Magrath, and Kathryn Rowland; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
A private family graveside service and internment was held on Monday, May 24, 2021 at Oak Lawn Cemetery with Pastor Brian Walter, officiating. If desired, contributions made in Jerry’s memory can be directed to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675.
His obituary is also at www.hackmanfamilyfuneralhomes.com where personal messages of support may be left for the family.