Obituary of Melba L Doyle

        Melba Louise Doyle, nee Gill, 91, of Long Grove, IL, formerly of Flint and Flushing, MI, died Thursday, January 10, 2019, at JourneyCare Hospice, Arlington Heights, IL.  Cremation has taken place.  In lieu of services, family and close friends will hold a celebration of life.  Inurnment with husband Blake at Great Lakes National Cemetery will follow.

         Born in Edmond, WV, Melba grew up in Charleston, moved to Flint in 1942, and graduated from Flint Central High School in 1945.  While in high school, Melba began working at Kroger's on Welch Blvd., eventually becoming head cashier.  While at Kroger's, she met her beloved future husband, Blake, and they married on October 24, 1948.

         Melba and Blake had many adventures together, from touring with the Buick sponsored "Skylarks" Drum and Bugle Corps, to boating and swimming on Lake Fenton, flying in Blake's Cessna 150, and projects with EAA Chapter 77 at Dalton Airport.  Melba was also a licensed motorcyclist and bike owner, riding her "Little Red" alongside Blake's vintage BMW.

         Melba's family, friends, and community were her pride and joy.  An accomplished seamstress, needleworker, and tailor, Melba made clothing, quilts and decorative items for family members. She was a member of Genesee Star Quilters, Flushing Philomathean Club, and Flushing YMCA.  As a Fairwinds Council Girl Scout Leader (Troop 775), Melba introduced dozens of girls to camping and outdoor skills, service projects, and a variety of knowledge and skill based badges.  In addition to her role as a troop leader, she served for many years as Mott Park Neighborhood Cookie Chairman.  Melba tirelessly supported daughter Toni's education and interests in music, dance and the outdoors, and nurtured in her a sense of responsibility, gratitude, and compassion.

        Blessed with a loving family, wonderful friends, and a life well-lived, Melba was preceded in death by her husband of 69 years, Blake E. Doyle; parents Raymond A. and Bessie G. Gill (née Blizzard); and sisters Mary Josephine, Mildred (Arthur) Hendriksen, Muriel (Cdr. Donald, USN, ret.) Roberts, and Margaret (Robert) King.  Melba is survived by daughter Toni (Jeff) Slepak, grandsons Justin R. Slepak and Alexander B. Slepak, brothers-in-law Wayne F. (Catherine “Leone”) Doyle and Brent H. (Carolyn) Doyle, as well numerous cherished nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.  Those wishing to honor Melba with a donation in her name please consider Food Bank of Eastern Michigan or your local animal shelter.