Melvin Carl Whitkanack

Melvin "Mel" Carl Whitkanack , age 53, of Ridgeland, SC, passed away on May 11, 2021.

He is survived by life partner Marletta Whitkanack; his children, Briar (Morgan) Whitkanack, Avery Whitkanack, Jane Gamell, Icie Gamell, and Levi Brady; mother, Barbara Whitkanack; siblings, Wendy (Gary Holleman) Whitkanack, Theresa Sawaska, Bryan Whitkanack, and Lora (Jim) Beamer; many nieces, nephews and loved ones.  Mel was preceded in death by his father, Marvin Whitkanack.

Mel was a hardworking, avid outdoorsman at heart.  He loved fishing, hunting and spending time with those he loved. A die hard Cubs and Colts fan, Mel loved watching the game. After graduating Hanover Central High School, Mel enlisted in the Marine Corps where he served his country in Operation Dessert Storm. More recently, Mel moved to Ridgeland, South Carolina so he could be closer to his adult children.

Mel was a man who enjoyed taking a hands-on approach to life and took pride in his work through U-haul. He always had a smile on his face, and would be the first to offer help to anyone in need. Mel was truly a stranger to none. To know him was an honor and he will be deeply missed by many.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 am, Sunday, May 16, 2021 at the fishing pond of the family's residence, with reception to follow. Please contact the family for the address.

Friends may also greet the family 4 pm-7 pm, Wednesday, May 19, 2021 at Burdan Funeral Home, 12901 Wicker Ave., Cedar Lake, IN.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.