Melvin Kuhens

Melvin Clair Kuhens, 70, of Buchanan, passed away on Saturday, October 22, 2011 at his home. A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 PM Saturday, October 29, 2011 at Starks & Menchinger Family Funeral Home, 2650 Niles Rd. St. Joseph with Betty Munro officiating. Friends may call from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM Saturday at the funeral home prior to the service. In Lieu of flowers Memorials may be made to Shriners Childrens Hospital. Those wishing to sign Melvin’s guestbook online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. Melvin was born on August 7, 1941 in Kodol, West Virginia to the late Reamus Dale (Charlie) and Virginia (Stoneking) Kuhens. On October 19, 1985 he married Linda Smith in Berrien Springs. Melvin was a standing member of the Elks Lodge and National Rifle Association. He loved to hunt as well. For years Mel was the owner operator of Mel’s Farm Market and Salt Store in Berrien Springs, MI. Melvin was known as the Salt King since he delivered salt throughout Berrien, Cass and Van Buren Counties. In retirement Mel was in the Fire Wood business. He loved taking care his Dogs Scooter, Dingo and Daisy and his ducks. Melvin is survived by his wife of 26 years, Linda ; Children Dail (Rhonda) Kuhens of Bangor, MI, Darlene Kuhens of Berrien Springs, MI., Richard Smith of Niles, MI., Randy (Kim) Smith of Berrien Springs, MI., Dan (Cindy) Kuhens of Buchanan, MI., Shelly (Billy) King of Buchanan, MI., Grandchildren Jaden, Jesse, Joe, Jake, John, Amanda, Justin, Rebecca, Regina, Damon, Devin, Billy Jr, Wesly, Joseph and Ashley. Brother Ralph (Marilyn) Kuhens of Virginia, Sisters: Leona Day of West Virginia and Betty (Dick) Munro of Indiana. Also many Nieces, Nephews and Great Grandchildren In addition to his parents, Melvin was preceded in death by his brother Theodore “Ted” Kuhens