Melvin "Mel" Eugene Rouwhorst

Melvin “Mel” Eugene Rouwhorst, age 90 of Robinson Township, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 20, 2022 at North Ottawa Community Hospital with his wife, Rosalie, by his side. He was born on January 15, 1932 in Grand Haven, MI to Charles and Susie (Bolthouse) Rouwhorst. Mel grew up the fourth of six boys. At the age of 10, his father passed away, and Mel worked jobs after school to help support the family.

Mel proudly served his country in the US Army from 1952 to 1954, during the Korean conflict. Shortly after, Mel met and married Rosalie June Witkowski on January 28, 1956 in Grand Haven.

Throughout his life, Mel was employed by Teledyne, Oldberg's, and Bastian Blessing, among others. He was a Golden Eagle member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Aerie 925, and was also a member of the American Legion, Charles A. Conklin Post 28.

A fun-loving family man, Mel was a light-hearted spirit who loved adventure, and was quick to shake your hand. He was a genuine person who could easily become your friend. Mel's passions were sailing, flying, hunting, fishing, and traveling. He crossed Lake Michigan several times in the annual Queen's Cup Race and prided himself in earning his private pilot's license at age 55.

Mel will be lovingly remembered and missed by his wife of 66 years, Rosalie; his son, David (Teresa) of L'Anse, MI; his brother, Ernest of Muskegon; brothers-in-law and sisters-in- law, Ron (Eve) Boston, Tony (Tina) Martin, Carol Hulka, Desiree Witkowski, Frieda Rouwhorst, Edna Herron, and Christine Rouwhorst; two grandchildren, Jason Hugall and Charity (Jeremy) Clark; several great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Daniel Rouwhorst; and brothers, Harvey (Louise), Kenneth, Bob, Charles, James Rouwhorst; sister-in-law, Sally Rouwhorst, and brother-in-law, Bob Hulka.

A Memorial Mass for Mel will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 14, 2022 at St. Patrick - St. Anthony’s Catholic Parish with Fr. Charles Schwartz officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will be at Robinson Township Cemetery.

For those unable to attend, the Mass will also be live streamed. Please visit: https://youtu.be/LhKahK3XzF0 to view live.

In lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions in Mel's name may be made to St. Patrick - St. Anthony’s Church Food Pantry.

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