Melva Jean Bigelow, 78, of Battle Creek, Michigan, went to be with the Lord on Monday, April 2, 2018, at Borgess Medical Center. She was born on March 8, 1940, the daughter of Ira Meryl Peake and Bernice Leone (Hubbell) Peake.
Melva graduated from Hastings High School. She was a faithful member at First Assembly Church of God for over 40 years; and attended both First Assembly and Fort Custer Christian Assembly when her health permitted. She married her husband Stanley on September 12, 1970, at First Assembly. Melva was very involved in the children's ministries at First Assembly for over 25 years as well. In her younger years she participated in 4-H and loved growing up on the farm.
Melva is survived by her two Daughters, Jenee Bigelow and Joy (Samuel) Evans; Son, James (Tammy) Bigelow; three Grandchildren, Caleb, Rachael and Hannah; three Great Grandchildren, Jaxson, Raleigh, and Rory; two Sisters, Marjorie Huva and Maxine (Dale) Payne; two Brothers, Melvyn (Nadine) Peake and Meryl (Crystal) Peake; brother-in-law, Vance Hamilton and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and other loving family. She was preceded in death by her parents, Husband, Stanley Bigelow, Sister, Mary Alice Hamilton, Brother, Marvin Peake, Sister-in-law, Marietta Peake, Brother-in-law, David Huva, and her beloved dog, Jack.
Melva loved hot air ballooning when she could and camping in the Upper Peninsula with her family and looked forward to it every year. She also enjoyed doing crosswords, puzzles, and visiting South Haven. Melva had a beautiful singing voice and was a choir member for many years. She was the very best wife and mother; she was a fantastic cook and baker and loved to care for her family. She was also an incredible sewer and had actually made her own wedding dress.