Mel, of Commerce, a renowned local musician and teacher, entered eternal life on Sunday, February 5, 2023, at Huron Valley Sinai Hospital in Commerce.  He was 80 years old and hospitalized for two weeks.

Mel was born August 24, 1942, in Detroit, and was raised in Bay City by the late Peter and Phyllis (Coon) Rookus.  He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 37 years, Ann, in 2004.

Surviving are his son, Mark; grandchildren, Rachel, Joel, and Natalie; his sister, Melissa Morin; and his longtime friend and companion, Judy Hood.

Mel earned his Bachelor's Degree and Master's Degree in Music from the University of Michigan and taught music in the Waterford School System for 35 years, retiring in 2000.  While in college, Mel served the First Presbyterian Church in Farmington as their organist.  Following Farmington, Mel was the Director of Music for Grace Lutheran Church in Pontiac, and began his 40-year commitment to Nardin Park United Methodist Church, Farmington Hills, in 1977 until his retirement in 2017.  Mel's expertise in his profession was truly enjoyed for decades at Sunday services as well as popular holiday and seasonal concerts. May his talented and accomplished soul rest in peace.

Family and friends may gather for visitation at the Heeney-Sundquist Funeral Home on Thursday, February 9th, from 2-8 pm.

A Memorial Ceremony is planned for Thursday morning, March 9th, at 11:00 am, at the Birmingham First United Methodist Church, 1589 West Maple Road, Birmingham.

Memorial tributes are suggested to the N.O.A.H. Project Detroit or Interlochen Center for the Arts .