Melvin B. “Mell” Coleman
Melvin B. “Mell” Coleman, age 81, passed away on Thursday, March 26, 2026, in Muskegon, Michigan. He was born on May 17, 1944, to Basil and Frances (Howd) Coleman in Alma, Michigan.
Mell attended St. Louis High School, graduating with the Class of 1962. He went on to continue his education at the University of Michigan, where he earned his bachelor’s degree, followed by a master’s degree in music. Mell had a lifelong passion for music and found great joy in sharing it with others through teaching and mentorship. He served as a dedicated band director at several high schools from 1967 to 1978, inspiring countless students along the way.
In addition to his musical talents, Mell was a gifted repairman who could fix just about anything. He later founded his own business, Embassy, where he put his skills to use helping others.
On December 28, 1968, he married the love of his life, Rita Bigney, in New Lothrop, Michigan. Together, they shared 57 years of love, laughter, and cherished memories. Mell was a devoted servant of the Lord and a longtime member of the United Methodist Church in Howell, where he formed many meaningful friendships. A talented singer and musician, he continued to share his gifts through lessons and performances.
He was a proud member of the Capital City Chordsmen, the Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association (MSBOA), the Barbershop Harmony Society (formerly SPEBSQSA), Livingston County Concert Band, and the Hartland Senior Citizen Program. He especially enjoyed participating in music programs that brought joy to senior citizens. Mell was also an avid collector and enthusiast of tools and parts, always eager to tinker and create. A devoted University of Michigan fan, he cheered on his team with pride—Go Blue!
Above all, Mell was a devoted family man who cherished every moment spent with his loved ones. He will be remembered as a loving husband, a wonderful father, a doting grandfather and great-grandfather, and a dear friend to many. Mell will be deeply missed.
He is survived by his loving wife, Rita Coleman; three sons, Gregory (Melanie) Coleman, Nicholas (Katherine) Coleman and Walter (Sarah) Coleman; 12 grandchildren, Tamara, Emily (Justin), Rebecca (Nathan), Samantha, Raymond, Christopher, Abigail, Allison, Matthew, Rebecca, Jackson and Anya; one great-grandchild, Lanayru; cherished friend, Heather LaVelle; and beloved church family and senior center friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, David Coleman and Timothy Coleman.
Memorial Contributions in his honor can be directed to the First United Methodist Church-Howell and Hartland Senior Activity Center. A Celebration of Mell’s Life will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at the First United Methodist Church, 1230 Bower St., Howell, MI 48843 with visitation from 10-11:00am. Arrangements entrusted to The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. Share memories with the family at https://www.sytsemafh.com (https://www.sytsemafh.com/).
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