Mel was more than someone I worked alongside—he was someone who brought kindness, laughter, encouragement, and warmth into the workplace and into the lives of those around him. I will always be grateful for the conversations we shared, the memories we created, and the moments of laughter that made even difficult days a little brighter. Mel was more than someone I worked alongside—he was someone who taught me so much, both as a coworker and as a counselor. Through his knowledge, wisdom, compassion, and the way he cared for others, he helped shape me professionally and personally. I am truly grateful for every lesson, every conversation, every laugh, and every memory we shared.

Lori, 
So sorry for your loss. Mel was always very kind and friendly. I didn’t know him well but I loved the stories he would tell. I hope you and your family are doing ok. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. 
All the best to you and your family,
Saleem

Your story Is truly inspirational and is a main part that built my motivation to turn my life around. This world loved you deeply Mel as did I and I pray that your home. Thanks for all of your words of wisdom and inspiration.

This man saved my life. Looks like you got that 4th task done. Makes me sad you can’t cheat that toe tag again, but god is ready for you now, I hope you are hearing that choir and walking through that bright green grass and under that perfect blue sky. 
Rest in heaven, Mel.

I have so many memories. Lori and Ashley. We need to add good natured jokester to Mel's obit. I think Jesus smiled at his pranks--especially when he took the hanging flowers from my cottage at HR and put them on Susan Michael's porch. I thought the florist who donated them to the camp took them because I had not yet paid for them
😅. I also remember your beautiful wedding Please know "Uncle" Chuck and I love you and are praying for the comfort of the Triune God!
June Leasure

Thank you Mel for caring, you are and will always be a huge inspiration for me and all others you worked with.  You are greatly missed.  Rest in peace.  You get to join that choir you heard 30 years ago.  And I'm sure the sky is as blue as you once described.  Love you Mel.
Your Friend

Greg

Mel is a big reason I am sober today. I think of him often because of all he did for me. I was so happy to see him a few months ago and I was able to lean in and tell him, “Thank you. I have 3 and a half years sober because of you.”  My condolences to his family and friends. God bless him.

Dearest Mel - thank you for believing in me before I could belief in myself. In recovery, you were the stepping stone that led me onto peer recovery support and I am grateful for the opportunity to now work alongside others who are navigating early recovery. ❤️‍🩹 You willl undoubtedly be remembered by the thousands you helped uplift, advocate for, encourage and inspire. 

Justin K 🕊️

Mel was one of the best people and greatest influences in my life. Im sober thanks to him and his dedication. I only spent a couple of months with him, but he will have a lasting impact on me and countless others. Thank you Mel for your work and your compassion.

In my darkest hour, Mel was a shining light. Words can't express how heavy this loss feels, and how deeply missed his presence will be. Thank you Mel for all that you were, and will continue to be. I love you.

I hold a beautiful story of Mel's health recovery in 2018/2019. I was his personal trainer for about a year and a half, and we shared many laughs and inspiring moments. I watched him go from zero, to hero, as he overcame so many health issues and continued to exercise, taking care of his health, working his way off of medications and getting back to work again. 

His short time with me has already inspired others as I share his story to those who now exercise with me. He proved to me how much you can overcome and I'm thankful for the moments we exercised, or tried to exercise, even when his body said today was not a good day.

Mel and Lori have that aura of love and feel like family, our family in Christ. Many moments of perseverance, ambition, humor, and hard work. His laugh makes me laugh. May he laugh and be in peace with our Lord and savior. 

Wishing my best to Lori and the family, always here to support and serve you.

- Chris Y

I was lucky enough to be one of his students at RVC.   He was absolutely the best councilor.   He cared for everyone of us.  He would take the time to get to know us and individualize each one of our treatments.  He could look into your soul when he talked with you and make you feel special.  The world is dimmer without him.  Thank you for everything Mel.

Lori, I am sorry to hear of your husband's passing. He served Rush Run, Chapel for many years as I remember. I will be praying for you any your daughter an her husband. May God grant so peace in your sorrow.

In Loving Memory

Today, we honor and remember someone who was deeply respected, cherished, and loved by so many. His life was a beautiful example of what it means to live in service to others.
 
He selflessly gave his time, wisdom, compassion, and encouragement to help others find hope, healing, and a new way of life. Through his commitment to helping his fellow man achieve and sustain sobriety, he touched countless lives, often believing in others when they struggled to believe in themselves.

His presence will be deeply missed, but the impact of his life and service will continue. Every person he encouraged, every life he touched, and every individual who continues walking the path of recovery carries a piece of his legacy forward.

May we honor his memory by continuing the work he held so close to his heart: helping others, offering hope, extending grace, and reminding one another that recovery is possible.

Gone from our presence, but never from our hearts. Your service, compassion, and legacy will never be forgotten. Rest peacefully Mel!

With love and remembrance,
 Your friend,
 Pamela Palmer

Mel said he was told that he had a few things left to accomplish on this earth before he left us. I know he definitely had a huge impact on myself and many others. I hope he’s in that grass that’s greener than anything you’ve ever seen, listening to that choir sing, and content with the enormous service he gifted to this world.

OBITUARY

Melvin Timberlake

August 25, 1957 – September 29, 2026

Schoedinger Norris Grove City

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