Melvin J. Visser
PORTAGE — Melvin J. Visser, 82 of Portage, passed away on Saturday, January 2, to join our Lord and Savior. We are heartbroken at the loss of our family patriarch, but take solace in knowing Mel’s life was truly well-lived and that he touched many lives in meaningful ways. He was a friendly, giving and kind man with a strong intellect, good sense of humor, a deep faith, and enduring curiosity to learn.
Mel was born in Grand Rapids on January 11, 1938, to Jacob and Thresse Visser, and attended Union High School where he was class president.
He graduated from Michigan Tech University (MTU) in 1959, shortly after marrying his wife Gloria (Curtin) of Lake Linden, and embarked on a 36-year career with the Upjohn Company (Pfizer), joining as a chemical development engineer and retiring in 1995 as VP, Environmental Health and Safety to pursue other challenges. Mel obtained several technology patents, including soil vapor extraction, utilized worldwide to clean up fuel and solvent spills.
Mel enjoyed his many friendships among the Michigan Tech community and was involved throughout his years sponsoring student Enterprise projects, serving on the Tech Fund and Alumni boards, meeting with faculty, participating in alumni events, presenting to classes and attending sporting events. He was a member of the MTU president’s club, and was inducted into the Chemical Engineering Academy in 1995. Mel recieved the Distinguished Alumni Award from MTU in 2018, where he offered these words: “Enjoy what you are doing. We are here to serve. Those who have gained knowledge and experience are obligated to share it with others in a beneficial manner.”
Mel had a very close and special friendship with Valoree Gagnon Ph.D., at MTU who referred to him as her “taproot,” encouraging and helping her growth as a researcher and as a human. His passion for learning inspired her studies and Mel’s dedication to live in the service of others continues through her work to restore and protect Indigenous land and life.
Mel had a deep affection for the Copper Country since arriving as a student in the 50’s, and working summers commercial fishing on Lake Superior for Gloria’s uncles, the Erkkila brothers of Big Traverse. He and Gloria returned often to a residence they maintained in Hancock, enjoying time with friends and family, and supporting local organizations such as Little Brothers, Friends of the Elderly.
Mel was passionate about the environment and Lake Superior, and he made several trips to the Arctic in his quest for knowledge and answers. His efforts culminated in authoring two published books, and co-authoring a third which is yet to be released.
He was active all his adult life with Milwood United Methodist Church in Kalamazoo.
Mel loved his family deeply, supported them in so many ways, and enjoyed being involved in their lives and keeping up on their activities. His big, calm reassuring voice, wisdom and large presence will be greatly missed.
Mel Visser is survived by his wife Gloria, brothers David and George Visser, son Patrick, daugher Lori and son-in-law Paul Morin, grand-daughters Emily (Ben Stelzer), Rachel and Sarah Morin, and many nieces and nephews.
Future plans for a memorial service will be announced at a later time.