Harold Melvin, 86

Harold Gene Melvin, age 86, of Sturgis, passed away early Friday morning, Feb. 19, 2021, at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo.
He was born June 19, 1934, in Paris, Texas, a son of the late Harry and Elmer Melvin.
Harold resided in Sturgis for the past nine years, coming from Oklahoma.
On April 21, 2010, he married Susan Crafts in Las Vegas.
Harold entered the U.S. Air Force in 1952, serving 22 years before retiring as a Master Sergeant in 1974. During his time in the USAF, Harold served in Korea, Vietnam and several commands in and outside of the U.S. He also served as a member of the Air Presidential Support unit. Upon his retirement from USAF, Harold owned and operated many successful businesses.
He was a member and past commander of Neuman-Wenzel Post #73 American Legion and a life member of Captain John J. Kelley Post #1355 V.F.W. Harold enjoyed playing golf and traveling with Susan in their motorhome. He seemed to always have a project he was working on and remodeled several homes in Sturgis.
He is survived by his wife, Susan; a son, Michael (Chaney) Melvin of Lafayette, La.; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; a sister, Ella Bee Brothers of Paris, Texas; many nieces and nephews; and he and Susan’s cats, Sparkle and Glimmer.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Marie and Geneva; and two brothers, M.J. and Lloyd.
The family will receive friends from 2 to 6 p.m. Thursday at Hackman Chapel of Hackman Family Funeral Homes, 114 S. Nottawa St., Sturgis. Full military honors will be conferred by Captain John J. Kelley Post #1355 VFW and the U.S. Air Force Honor Guards at 6 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a maximum number of 25 people are allowed in the funeral home at a time. In accordance with his wishes, cremation will follow visitation. A continued time of fellowship will take place at Post #73 American Legion, 500 W. Chicago Road in Sturgis, immediately following visitation.
The family suggests those wishing to make a memorial donation in Mr. Melvin’s memory consider American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22718, Oklahoma City, OK, 73123.
His obituary is also at www.hackmanfamilyfuneralhomes.com, where relatives and friends may share memories and leave condolences for the family.