Melford McCormick

Melford McCormick loved mushroom hunting, Wheel of Fortune, hot dogs, and tinkering with engines. What he loved most of all, however, and what always came first in his life, were his friends and family. Melford knew everyone, and was always willing to lend a helping hand – people often said that Melford “would give you the shirt off his own back.” Melford’s friendly smile, kind heart, and true concern for others touched many hearts throughout the years; he was deeply loved, and will be deeply missed.

The year 1934 was a time of cautious hope for many Americans, as the Great Depression hit the turning point and unemployment levels began to drop. Notable events of the year included the arrest of Bonnie and Clyde, the release of the first Three Stooges movie, and the publication of the first Flash Gordon comic strip. Melford was born in the first month of this year, on January 23, to proud parents Harry and Lavon (Rinker) McCormick.

The McCormick family lived in Kalamazoo, Michigan, where Harry supported his family as a carpenter and mason. LaVon was a homemaker, and also worked odd jobs on the side. One of nine children, Melford grew up with siblings Richard, Daniel, Evelyn, Alford (Melford’s twin), Robert, Patrick, James, and Margaret. When the time came for Melford to enroll in school, his family chose the Kalamazoo public school system, which Melford attended through the eighth grade.

After finishing school, Melford joined the Reserves, and in 1955 was drafted into the U.S. Navy. He returned home safely, and settled down in the Kalamazoo area. Melford found a job at the Parchment Paper Mill, where he would be a loyal employee until his retirement 25 years later. Melford’s first wife was named Patricia, and his second wife Mary Kay Stratton. Although these marriages would end in divorce, Melford was blessed with two wonderful children: Linda Kay and Lonnie Allen. Their family also included the kids’ pets, a big ol’ St. Bernard dog and a tiny terrier mix named Bozo.

In his free time, Melford could often be spotted working on cars and other small engine machines. He would cruise around, looking for discarded vacuum cleaners and mowers that would come to life again under his talented hands. Melford also enjoyed hunting for mushrooms, and could always be counted on to spot the tastiest specimens. Indoors, Melford enjoyed watching TV, especially the news – he would have watched the news all day if he could. Some of his favorite shows included CSI Miami, NCIS, Jeopardy Price is Right, and Wheel of Fortune. Melford was the king of his living room – anyone who tried to change the channel had better watch out!

Friendly, generous, and kindhearted, Melford was a loving brother and son, a devoted father, and a loyal friend. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his many friends and family members.

Mr. Melford McCormick died on May 11, 2013, at the age of 79. Melford’s family includes his children, Linda McCormick Tiller and Lonnie (Sherri Lee Stanton) McCormick; two grandchildren; three great grandchildren; eight siblings; and several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service with military honors will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, May 21, at Fort Custer National Cemetery, 15501 Dickman Road, Augusta, MI 49012. Memorial donations may be made to The American Cancer Association or the American Heart Association. Please visit Melford’s personal memory page at www.lifestorynet.com, where you can learn more about his life, share a favorite memory or photo, and sign the online guestbook.