Obituary of Melvin L. Cookson

BURNHAM -- Melvin L. Cookson, 64, of Burnham went to be with his Lord and Savior on March 7, 2012, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born in Burnham on June 28, 1947, the son of Sherman A. and Rena (Kenney) Cookson. Melvin, known as "Melly," grew up in Burnham and was a loving, devoted husband and father. Leaving Unity-Freedom High School early to enter the workforce, he later attained a General Educational Development diploma while working at Ethan Allen Furniture in Burnham. Throughout his life, he worked at many jobs associated with Maine: woodworking, carpentry, handsewing shoes to name a few; always hard at work to support his family. He was an industrious, smart and quick-witted man who touched the lives of many. Having a vast array of skills and being the clever man he was, Melvin was always happy to help his family with any problems or situations they found themselves in. With truest application of Yankee ingenuity, Melvin got it going, often with simple but crafty means. On Aug. 26, 1967, he married the love of his life, Margaret Merrithew, and had three beautiful children. He enjoyed life to the fullest, especially when his children were in to sports in school; he never missed an event. He also enjoyed vacations at Moosehead Lake with his family, fishing and harness racing. Melvin is survived by his loving wife; his daughter, Lori Cookson, and companion John, of Burnham; sons Michael Cookson and wife Michele of Pittsfield, and Jeffrey Cookson and companion Angie of Burnham; brothers Sherman Cookson Jr. and wife Joyce of Burnham, and Ronald Cookson of Burnham; sisters Arlene Miles, Alyson Thomas of Burnham, and Janase Rich of Hartland; granddaughters Megan and Casey of Connecticut, Brittany, Emily and Danielle of Pittsfield, and Katie and husband Josh Meader of Alaska; grandsons Michael Cookson of Pittsfield and Ethan Cookson of Burnham; a great-grandson, Aiden Meader, of Alaska; a special nephew, Craig Miles, who was so very helpful to Melvin during his battle with cancer; several brothers- and sisters-in-law; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Melvin was predeceased by his parents; a sister, Joan Sidelinger; a brother, Maynard Cookson; and a special nephew, Ben Lovely. A special thank-you to his nurse, Christy, a caring and compassionate soul, and to Chaplain Juliann, who helped him with spiritual support until God's plan for Melvin was complete. At Melvin's request, there will be no funeral. There will be a gathering in the spring.