Melvin B. "Coach Mel" Skillman

Melvin B. Skillman, a cherished member of the Shields community, was born into eternal life at his home on the evening of Monday, January 1, 2024. He was born on April 11, 1935, in Ypsilanti, Michigan, and lived a life filled with love, passion, and dedication. Mel was 88 years young. He attended school in Oscoda and later graduated from Central Michigan University.

Mel was a man of many admirable qualities, known for his outgoing nature, caring demeanor, and unwavering dedication. He was a beloved high school chemistry teacher who inspired countless students throughout his career. While attending a school in-service, he met a fellow teacher by the name of Janet DeWyse MacDonald, They dated, fell in love, and were united in marriage on August 22, 1986. Throughout life, Mel made his mark as a remarkable football coach, leading teams at various high schools including Beaverton, Freeland, Douglas MacArthur, Heritage, Merrill, Arthur Hill, Hemlock, Bridgeport, Atlanta, Breckenridge, and Alpena; along with Alma College. His coaching expertise paved the way for seven undefeated seasons and 10 playoff appearances, earning him regional coach of the year nine times. In 1981, Melvin’s outstanding contributions to the football community led to his induction into the State Football Coaches Hall of Fame. Later in 2012, he was inducted into the Saginaw County Sports Hall of Fame.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Melvin was passionate about lending a helping hand. He actively participated in the Leader Dogs for the Blind program, raising and caring for 20 dogs, many of whom went on to assist visually impaired individuals. His selflessness touched the lives of many, and he even hosted a Leader Dog Mom, nurturing four litters of pups. Mel was also an avid fisherman in his younger years.

Mel was such a good man and role model; he touched the lives of countless individuals both near and far. His enthusiastic personality, loyalty, and love for his family, friends, and players will forever live on.

To carry on his legacy, Mel leaves his wife of 37 years, Janet Skillman; children, Kelly (Kenny) Preisser, Patrick (Rebecca) Skillman, Jennifer S. (Tiffany), Jennifer Jan (Charles) Ereyimwen, and Kenneth B. Skillman; step-children, Alysia MacDonald and Josh MacDonald; grandchildren, Adareine (Justin) Arnell, Taylor (Lindsey) Preisser, Felicia Skillman, Vanessa Skillman, and Emma Houthoofd; great-grandchildren, Aztin, Alexia, and Amelia Arnell; Beulah and Dorothea Preisser; in-laws, Carol Skillman, Arlene Schmitz, Theresa Quintana, Donna DeWyse, Eugene DeWyse, John DeWyse, Ken (Pam) DeWyse, Robert (Vicki) DeWyse, Jackie DeWyse, and Patricia Weslock, along with many nieces, nephews, and their families. Mel was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Kathryn (Maddux) Skillman; children, Tamara C. and Timothy C. Skillman; brother, David Skillman; granddaughter, Aztin Preisser, and in-laws, George and Eveagene DeWyse, Thomas DeWyse, Mary Joy DeWyse, Lawrence Schmitz, and J. Patrick Quintana.

Melvin’s family will be present to receive visitors on Friday, January 5, 2024 from 2:00 PM until 8:00 PM with a 6:00 PM Vigil at Skorupski Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1550 Midland Rd., between State & Gratiot, where certified therapy dogs and future Leader Dog pups are welcome. On Saturday, January 6, 2024, Mel will be taken to Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 1035 N. River Rd., Shields, where visiting will continue from 10:00 AM until Melvin’s 11:00 AM Memorial Mass. Fr. Peter Gaspeny will preside with a luncheon to follow at church. Memorial contributions may be directed to Leader Dogs for the Blind, Unbound, or St. Joseph’s Indian School. The entire family wishes to extend a heartfelt thanks to the wonderful and caring staff at Covenant VNA Hospice and to Mel’s sister-in-law, Donna DeWyse, for her time, expertise, and help in caring for Mel. Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family online at www.skorupskis.com. “Give ’em Hell, Mel!”