Melvin Wade Onstott

Melvin Wade Onstott, age 83, passed away peacefully on May 1, 2026, in Muskegon, Michigan. Born on May 30, 1942, in Mt. Pleasant, MI, Melvin lived a life marked by hard work, devotion to family, and a deep connection to the outdoors.

Melvin was raised in a close-knit family as the second oldest of five children. Throughout his youth, he moved between Mt. Pleasant, Flint, and Muskegon, attending various schools before earning his GED. He proudly served in the United States Navy for two years, embodying the spirit of service despite challenges during his enlistment. Following his military service, Melvin dedicated much of his career to manufacturing, working as a skilled machine operator at Brenneman in Muskegon and later at BASF in Holland, where he retired at age 62.

A man of simple pleasures, Melvin was an avid hunter and fisherman, cherishing his hunting property in Mason County. He loved the patience and peace found in nature, spending countless hours pursuing deer and, in earlier years, small game like rabbits and squirrels. His passion for the outdoors was complemented by his talent as a handyman-known for his knack for tinkering and repairing everything from lawnmowers to engines, Melvin was a problem solver who generously shared his skills with family and friends.

Though not formally affiliated with a church, Melvin held a strong personal faith that guided him throughout his life. Family was at the heart of everything he did. He was a devoted father to four daughters: Cindy (Kirk) Hyde, Tammy Miller, Brenda Burrows, and Roberta "Robin" (Michael LaFave) Carichner, and a loving grandfather to Amanda, Angela, Robert, William (Bill), Charlene, Linda, Christopher, Brandi, Doug, Jason, and Claudae; former spouse Shirley Onstott. His legacy extends to many great-grandchildren who will carry his memory forward. Melvin was preceded in death by his father, Otis Onstott and Mother Edith VanSlyke, Siblings, David (Shirley) Onstott, Joanne (jack) Pepera, Linda Bohley and Darlene (jim) Nyhof and grandson Scott Wilks jr

Family and friends are invited to honor Melvin's life with a visitation on May 15, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Clock Funeral Home, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. A luncheon reception will follow, with burial to take place at Lakeside Cemetery in Muskegon.

Memorial contributions may be made in Melvin's name to organizations supporting veterans or local wildlife conservation efforts, reflecting the passions that shaped his life.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to all who have supported them during this difficult time. Melvin's legacy of hard work, faith, and love for family and nature will be remembered with great fondness and respect.