Melvin Joseph Plaskey

Melvin Joseph Plaskey, 78, of St. Clair Shores, Michigan, began his journey home to our Lord surrounded by his loving family. Born on August 20, 1947, in Detroit, Mel lived a life defined by loyalty, laughter, and devotion to the people he loved most.

Mel was the beloved husband of Kathleen for 51 years, loving father to M. Joseph (Livia), and proud grandfather to Merrick and Sylvia, who were the light of his life. Dear brother of Gina Scalise. He was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin and Pauline, and his stepfather, Cameron Scalise.

Mel graduated from Lakeshore Highschool in 1965. While taking night classes to earn his degree in Business Administration from Macomb Community College, Mel began a remarkable 36-year career with General Motors, where he worked in Fleet Operations, ultimately serving as a Senior Buyer and Purchasing Supervisor. Known for his integrity and leadership, Mel built lasting relationships throughout the automotive industry. Following retirement, he founded The Plaskey Group, continuing to serve engineering firms as a trusted consultant, proof that his passion for problem-solving and people never slowed down.

Mel, often referred to as Melster or Moose by his friends and family, was a fighter in every sense of the word. He survived several strokes, serious illnesses, and surgeries, meeting each challenge with determination, resilience, and his signature sense of humor. Even in the hardest moments, he focused on others by lifting spirits, cracking jokes, and reminding everyone around him of what strength really looks like.

Mel loved sports, especially the University of Michigan football and the Los Angeles Rams. He found immense joy coaching his son in both baseball and basketball. Mel cherished time on the golf course with friends, took pride in founding the Mala Femmina cigar club, and was a devoted member of the Knights of Columbus. But more than anything, Mel loved bringing people together. Whether at family gatherings, sporting events, or simple get-togethers, he had a rare gift for making everyone feel welcome, relaxed, and happy. He leaves behind not only a loving family but a wide circle of friends whose lives were better simply because they knew him.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 22, from 4:00pm until 8:00 p.m., 7:00pm Scripture Service at D.S. Temrowski and Sons Funeral Home 30009 Hoover Road Warren, Michigan 48093. On Friday, January 23, Mel will lie in state at 10:30 a.m., followed by a Mass at 11:00 a.m. at St. Lucy’s Catholic Church in St. Clair Shores, Michigan.

Mel’s legacy lives on in the laughter he sparked, the relationships he built, and the family he cherished above all else. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

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