Obituary of Melvin Harold Alexander, Sr.

Melvin Harold Alexander was born in Warren, Ohio on July 17, 1943. He was one of eight children born to the union of Forest and Ona (Bomer) Alexander. Mel, as he was commonly known, would proudly service his country by enlisting in the United States Marine Corp.  This is where he also obtained his GED.

Mel was a Jack of all trades; he painted on just about any medium, and his talents included using the ever-difficult oil paints. He was well versed in carpentry building beautiful end tables and painstakingly carving animal faces on the tops of the furniture. He worked for various places but spent twenty plus years as a millwright at New Mather Metals 

Mel never missed an opportunity to drop a line in the lake near the family camper in Coldwater, Michigan. Even though he rarely made the trek, he truly enjoyed sitting on the deck while visiting. Turtle trapping was an “Alexander Thing” he participated in with his family, especially his brothers.

Mel was a well-known character in the karaoke arena around the Toledo, Ohio area.  He shamelessly belted out his signature song, Johnny Cash’s “Folsom Prison Blues”.  Folks flocked to see watch him perform because he was such a fun presence and entertainer on stage.

Melvin Harold Alexander, age 79 of Erie, passed away at ProMedica Toledo Hospital at 2:42am on Tuesday; March 7, 2023.  His passing was preceded by his parents; his wife: Mary; three brothers: Jack, Chet, and Marvin his twin; a sister: Helen Kraft; and a grandson: Wade Alexander.

To cherish his memory, he leaves a son: Bud (Deanna) Alexander; a daughter: Cynthia (Dale) Kinzel; three sisters: Emma Rollins, Shirley Griffin, and Barbara Yliczny; and five grandchildren: Sade’s Helsel, Veronica Alexander, Denem Alexander, Tiffany Alexander, Michael Alexander; three great grandchildren: Avalynne Miller, Roslyn Emmons, and Lydia Alexander.

Friends may gather on Sunday; March 12, 2023, from 3:00pm until 5:00pm at Merkle Funeral Service, Erie; 9156 Summit Street, Erie, Michigan 48133 (734) 317-7199. A Funeral Service Celebrating His life will take place at 5:00pm also at Merkle’s. Cremation will follow through the on-site crematory, Covenant Cremation of Erie, Michigan.

Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.