Melvia Olive Durkee

Melvia Olive Durkee, 84, of Beaverton, Michigan passed away at her home surrounded by her loved ones on Sunday, October 14, 2018. She was born on April 13, 1934, the daughter of Richmand & Grace (Mattis) Thomas in Edenville Michigan. On June 10, 1955, she was united in marriage to Leonard Durkee in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan. He preceded her in death in 2014. She was a wonderful lifetime homemaker who loved babysitting and taking care of her family. She was a member of the Beaverton Baptist Church and has lived in Gladwin County her entire life. Left to cherish her memory is her 5 children: Keith Durkee of Houghton Lake; Chris Durkee of Beaverton; Doyle (Kathy) Durkee of Hudsonville; Raymond (Jeanne) Durkee of Beaverton; Karen (Andrew) Thompson of Harrison. Her children blessed her with 8 wonderful grandchildren and 12 beautiful great grandchildren. She is also survived by 5 siblings: Pansy Fancher of Charlotte; Russell (Faith) Thomas of Farwell; Virginia “Ginny” (Elmer) Benchley of Marion, MI, and Florida; Dick (Alice) Thomas of Maryland; Deanne (Dave) Bishop of Arkansas; several nieces and nephews; plus the entire Thomas Benchley, Codling families, plus many friends and neighbors she considered “Kin.” She is preceded in death by her husband; parents; 6 brothers: Ray Thomas, Jake Thomas, Delbert Thomas, Harley Thomas, Bud Thomas, Leonard Thomas and sister: Chris Hendrickson. Memorial Services will be conducted by Pastor Kim Lewis and Pastor Charlie Green on Friday, October 19, 2018, 11:00 A.M. at the Beaverton Baptist Church, Beaverton, Michigan. The family will receive friends from 10:00 A.M. until the time of service. Arrangements are in the care of Hall-Kokotovich Funeral Home, Beaverton, Michigan. www.hall-kokotovichfuneralhome.com