Craig Russell Melvin

MELVIN, Craig Russell
Of Kalamazoo Passed away Sunday morning, January 29, 2012 at his residence surrounded by family. Craig was born September 9, 1954, in Ft. Sill, Oklahoma the son of Kay and Inez Slater Melvin. Craig earned a Bachelor's Degree from Western Michigan University; and for over 25 years was self-employed as a travel director. He was a member of Second Reformed Church and did volunteer work for several organizations which included Meals on Wheels, Willing Workers at Lake Louise, and the Christmas Dinner at the Blue Dolphin. He was also proud to be a blood donor; and donated over 14 gallons of blood to the American Red Cross. Craig enjoyed playing all sports, especially paddleball, and spent 35 years as a sports official for the MHSAA in baseball, softball, volleyball, and football. As a travel director, he was able to explore many locations domestic and abroad. He loved being able to share these adventures with his friends and family, and the next great trip was as close as the travel guidebook he had just checked out of the library. On March 12, 1983 he was united in marriage to his wife, Kim Proos, who survives. Also surviving are his daughter and son, Katie Melvin and Danny Melvin; parents Kay and Inez Melvin; sister, Terri Scott Denhof, and brother, Brian Gabriela Melvin; father-in-law, Dr. Richard Proos; and several nieces and nephews. Craig was preceded in death by his mother-in-law, Betty Proos in 2008. Friends may meet the family on Friday, February 3, from 3-8pm at the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Westside Chapel, 3926 South 9th Street. A memorial service to celebrate Craig's life will be held Saturday, February 4, at 11 a.m. at Second Reformed Church, 2323 Stadium Dr., with Pastor Kevin Hart officiating. Private family interment will be at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the National Paddleball Association, 7642 Kingston Dr., Portage, MI 49002, or the Lake Louise Christian Community 11037 Thumb Lake Road, Boyne Falls, MI 49713.