Melvin L. Cotton

Melvin L. Cotton, age 81, of Honea Path, South Carolina formerly of Charlotte, passed away Tuesday, October 2, 2018, with his family by his side. He was born September 12, 1937, in Charlotte the son of Elgin and Vida (Fisher) Cotton. Melvin went on to graduate from Charlotte High School with the Class of 1956. On September 3, 1971, Melvin married the love of his life Karlene Marie Miller in Eaton Rapids. Mel was a fiercely devoted family man. He was proud of his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren. Melvin looked forward to his annual walleye fishing trips to Canada with his friends form work. He was also a huge Detroit Tigers and MSU Football fan. Throughout his life Mel had a passion for creating magnificent wood bowls. This was a skill he learned from Harry Blanchard while a student at Charlotte High School. Mel worked his entire career as a Journeyman Pressman for the Lansing State Journal. He retired after over 35 years of service. Melvin is survived by his children: Melvin L. (Wanda) Cotton Jr. of Belding, Tonya M. (David) Wehr of Honea Path, SC, Tod L. (Kim) Cotton of Charlotte, Matthew E. Cotton of Florida; 11 grandchildren; numerous great grandchildren; several great-great grandchildren; siblings: Elizabeth Wheaton of Lansing, and Patricia (Floyd) Burley of Charlotte. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Karlene; siblings: Wally Cotton, Shirley Gearhart, and Lynwood Cotton. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 6, 2018, at 3 PM at the American Legion Post 42, 1000 W. Lawrence Ave., Charlotte, MI 48813. Those desiring, may make contributions in Melvins honor to the American Heart Association.