Melvin Franklin Cole

Melvin Franklin Cole, 76, of Lacota, passed away Thursday, April 11, 2019 at his home under Hospice care. He was born July 20, 1942 to Frank and Mary (Kelly) Cole in Cushman, Arkansas. He graduated from South Haven High School with the Class of 1961. Melvin married Julie Pratt on October 31, 1964 at the First United Methodist Church in South Haven. They shared 55 years of marriage. He worked at South Haven Coil for over 40 years before retiring as a supervisor in 2015. He loved sports and enjoyed baseball, golfing, and fishing. He was also an avid reader, enjoyed antiquing, and going out to eat. Most of all, Melvin enjoyed spending his time with family. He was a member of the Lacota United Methodist Church.

He is preceded in death by his parents – Frank and Mary Cole; siblings – Calla Mae Pack, Raymond Cole, and Glen Cole.

Melvin is survived by his wife – Julie Cole; children – Mark Cole, Melissa (Craig) Westerhof, and Corey (Jodie) Cole; siblings – Melba Crites, Virginia (David) Barnett, Kathy (Bill) Shearer, Connie (Dan) Cerveny, and Larry (Judy) Cole; sister-in-law – Kathy (Pratt) Gollehon; six grandchildren; and three great grandchildren.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Wednesday, April 17, 2019 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM on Thursday, April 18, 2019 with Pastor Michael Pinto officiating at the funeral home. Melvin will be laid to rest at Lacota Cemetery. Contributions may be made to the Cancer and Hematology Center, 12460 Riley Street, Holland, Michigan 49424.