MICHIGAMME, MI – Melvin R. Warlin, age 86, a longtime resident of Michigamme, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at the D.J. Jacobetti Home for Veterans in Marquette, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Republic, MI, to Isaac Warlin and Simi Linna, Melvin grew up in a large and close-knit family and attended Republic schools. Following high school, Melvin proudly answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Army. He served during the Vietnam War and was stationed for a time at Fort Knox. During this chapter of his life, he met the love of his life, Dina Materazzi. They were married and built a devoted family together. Melvin lovingly embraced Dina’s three daughters as his own, and together they welcomed their son, Eric.

Melvin and Dina lived for a time in Hershey, Pennsylvania, where Melvin worked for the Hershey Chocolate Company. In the early 1970s, the family returned to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to be closer to relatives and the place they loved most. They made their home in Michigamme, where they spent the rest of their lives together.

A hardworking and skilled man, Melvin first worked in carpentry, building homes with Don Hamari. He later became a truck driver and was employed for many years by Viking Explosives. He retired from Viking Explosives in the early 2000s.

Melvin enjoyed the simple and meaningful things in life. He loved spending time at camp, hunting and fishing, and hosting cookouts with his children and grandchildren. Family was always at the center of his life. In his younger years, Melvin also proudly served his community as the Fire Chief for the Michigamme Fire Department.

Melvin is survived by his son, Eric (Misti) Warlin of Champion; his daughters, Cindy (Keith) Alligood and Rina (Albert) Howe; and his beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren, along with several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Dina; his parents, Isaac and Simi; his daughter, Peggy Warlin; and his siblings, Bernard, Leslie, Jim, Elsie, and Elvie.

Melvin will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his strong work ethic, and the many memories shared around campfires, hunting trails, and family gatherings.

Honoring Melvin’s wishes, cremation will take place and a celebration of life will be held in the Spring. Details will be forthcoming.

A full obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com, where relatives and friends are invited to leave notes of remembrance.