Milford "Mel" Weinberg

Hardworking, generous, and kind, Milford "Mel" Weinberg lived his life centered in faith and family. A naturally humble man, Mel welcomed each day as a gift and each person as a friend. He was a devoted father, proud grandfather, and treasured friend who Mel embraced his roles with honor and unquestionable integrity, leading his family and community by example. While he will be deeply missed, Mel will long be remembered in the hearts and lives of those who knew him best. Despite the obvious gloom of the Great Depression,1935 gave birth to many celebrated firsts. While reeling in the heartache of Black Sunday, our nation's 20.1% unemployment rate and the gathering war clouds as Germany passed the Nuremberg laws, Americans found much hope in Amelia Earhart's first solo Pacific flight, the inventions of parking meters, fluorescent tubes for light, and the game of Monopoly, as well as the first Orange Bowl, first Pacific Airmail delivery, and the first technicolor film; Mickey Mouse. In Brady Township, Harold A. and Mary K. (Waltz) Weinberg held much hope for the future as they celebrated the birth of their son Mel on April 6. In 1937, Mel and his family moved to the farmhouse that would become his home for the rest of his life. Mel grew up attending Pavilion #4 country school where he made many lifetime friendships. Growing up on the family farm, Mel's passion for farming and family values formed the firm foundation upon which he built the rest of his life. After graduating from Vicksburg High School in 1953, Mel attended Western Michigan University before entering the Army in 1958. He proudly served his country for two years in Germany. On October 9, 1965, he married the love of his life, Joanna (Haefner) Weinberg. Together they raised three children on the same farm Mel grew up on. Molly, Todd, and Chad were Mel's heart's delight. A simple man who understood what was truly most important, Mel relished family life. He proudly shared his passion for farming with his children and was delighted when his son Todd took over the operation and management of the family business. A trustworthy man who knew the power of his word and the value of hard work, Mel possessed the resilient and unwavering faith of a farmer. His love of the land and commitment to agriculture were evident in the way he shared his time and talents with others. For many years, Mel was a valued member of the Latecomers Farm Bureau Group of Kalamazoo County. Mel's ability to consistently rise to the challenges and uncertainties that inherently come with farming made him a powerful role model for all who were blessed to know him. Without a doubt, Mel was happiest at home on the farm. While he enjoyed vacationing with his family, their time away was usually short as it did not take long for Mel to yearn to return home. Once Molly and her family moved to Hawaii, he learned to welcome a few extra days away. As his family grew to include grandchildren, Mel always looked forward to his family coming home in the summer months and creating special memories at the farm. He lovingly designed and constructed two different swing sets to accommodate his growing family. A particularly special memory for Mel was the surprise 50th Wedding Anniversary celebration his children created in October of 2015. Mel and Jo very much appreciated celebrating their good fortune in the good company of their family and friends. In later years, Mel faced a series of health issues. Over time, the challenges they presented began to take their toll both physically and mentally. Despite the growing discomforts and disappointments, Mel always welcomed sharing more time with his family and friends. The deep connections he made as a lifelong member of Lakeland Reformed Church afforded great comfort. Clearly, it is difficult to imagine life in the absence of Mel's steadfast presence. May we find comfort in knowing that we carry the best of his legacy forward in our own lives. With each sunset we take the time to appreciate, seasons of uncertainty we meet with undauntable faith, and kindness we extend to those in need, we celebrate the many ways we have been gifted by the good man we were so honored to know. And in this way, Mel will continue to inspire others as he so inspired us. Milford "Mel" Weinberg, of Scotts, passed away on Monday, September 30, 2019, at the age of 84. Mel leaves his wife of 54 years, Jo; three children: Molly (Weinberg) Schake, of Mililani, HI; Todd H. Weinberg, of Scotts; Chad R. Weinberg, of Alexandria, VA. Also, son-in-law: Mark Schake and daughter-in-law: Therra (Ebwe) Weinberg; eight grandchildren: Emily Schake, Wendy (Schake) Lyons, Daniel Lyons, Nathan Schake, Brooke Schake, Ryna Weinberg, Corban Weinberg, and Phoebe Weinberg. He was preceded in death by his sister, Eleanor "Ellie" (Weinberg) Fitzgerald, and brother, Stanley Weinberg. A Celebration of Life memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 26, 2019, at 3pm at the Lakeland Reformed Church, 10442 South Sprinkle Road, Vicksburg. Pastor Ed Schmidt will officiate. A gathering will be held at the church on that same day from 1pm to 3pm. A private burial of Mel's ashes will be held at Boughton Cemetery. Please visit Mel's webpage at www.mccowensecord.com where you can sign the guestbook, and share a memory with his family. The family is being assisted by the McCowen & Secord Funeral Home, Rupert-Durham Chapel, 409 S. Main, Vicksburg, (269-649-1697).