Melvin Holmes

Melvin Gene "Mel" Holmes passed away peacefully Sunday Morning, August 28, 2011, in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Mel was born July 19, 1936, in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma, a son of the late James L. and Vera (Cook) Holmes. Mel was a refreshing light to others, and everyone felt his kindness from the moment they met him. Mel loved life no matter what the trial, and he was always gracious and positive in all situations. Mel had the ability to see anything through to perfection, and always completed every given task. During his life he was an accomplished welder, pilot, certified diver, horse trainer, and successful entrepreneur in several businesses, including a large commercial greenhouse. Mel rose to the challenge of raising his two grandsons after losing one of his sons in a tragic plane crash while serving in the Air Force as a flight engineer, as well as caring for his first wife during a prolonged fight with cancer. Mel is survived by his wife JoAnn W. Cottam, her 6 children and 20 grandchildren. He is also survived by a sister, 2 brothers as well as 2 sons, 7 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren whom he loved and adored. Mel was an incredibly loving husband to JoAnn and filled her life with joy for the last 7 ½ years. Since May of last year, Mel and JoAnn lived in the home of JoAnn's son Dale W. Cottam and his wife Dr. Tamara O. Cottam, together with their 6 children. His life in Wyoming included playing with the grandkids, spending time outdoors hunting and trapping, and a great variety of leisure activities with JoAnn. Mel will be missed by the great many people whose lives he touched with his fun-loving character and giving personality. The family will receive friends at a viewing on Tuesday, August 30, 2011, from 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. at the Schrader Funeral Home at 2323 Carey Ave., Cheyenne. Interment will take place in Foster Cemetery in Foster, Oklahoma. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Davis Hospice Center, 6000 Sycamore Rd. Cheyenne WY, 82009. The family would like express their deepest gratitude to those who rendered care to Mel in his final days at rest in the Center.

Visitation

Tuesday, August 30, 2011 6:00pm - 9:00pm

Schrader Funeral Home

2323 Carey Avenue

CHEYENNE, WY 82001