Melvin DeWitt Kniffen Jr, 70, of Detroit, Michigan, by way of Hudson, Florida, passed away on November 12, 2021, after a difficult battle with cancer. Mel was born on September 22, 1951 to Melvin Kniffen Sr and Theresa (nee Cadieux) in Detroit. After graduating from high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, and served as a radio operator in Bamberg, West Germany from 1970 - 1972, where he earned the National Defense Service Medal, as well as Expert Marksmanship Medals for two weapons. After an Honorable Discharge, he landed his first job as a heat-treating specialist for Massey Ferguson for 10 years. In 1974, he married Kathy Stahl, going on to have three children, Melvin III, Theresa, and Shae. Mel was a force of nature, determined to provide for his family and give them the life he felt they deserved. He worked his hands to a callused state, and often moved his family from city to city to find work in a dying industry - always reminding his family that his role is to "put food on the table and clothes on your backs". His work ethic and discipline made him a hero to his children. But his generosity didn't end there. Mel could always be counted on for sound advice and long life-learning lectures, to which his children can surely attest. Weekends were family time, often highlighted by trips to the lake in the summer, and building an ice-skating rink in the winter. His family meant more to him than anything else in the world, something he often mentioned, but didn't need to. He was unendingly proud of his children's accomplishments and always tried his best to support them. Mel was also passionate about history, and could often be found reading historical books or watching documentaries on television. His love for music was immeasurable, and passed that quality on to his children, through endless hours of exposure to Dylan, Morrison, and Young. Anyone who knew Mel, knew that he was the most loving father and husband a family could ask for. Mel was predeceased by his sister Donna Kniffen and his brother Mark Kniffen. He is survived by his wife and friend Kathy Kurzatkowski; his sister and brother-in-law Lezlie and Richard Calcaterra; his brother Jerry Kniffen; his children Melvin and Katja Kniffen, Theresa and Bradly Knoble, and Shae Kniffen; and his grandchildren Jordan and Stephen Larson; Hunter and Peyton Stefanich; Michael Kniffen; and Austin Kniffen. There will be a celebration of life in the coming months in Michigan. Details will be made available when they are finalized.

Dad, you’re now in a place where every day is Saturday at the beach, there’s classic rock on the radio, and sand never gets in the car!

… and here on Earth, we’ll keep Michigan outdoors for you!

You always told us how proud you are of us. Now let us say, “We were always proud of you!” Thank you for everything. We love you! Now rest in peace.

- Mel, Theresa, and Shae

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