The obituary of Melvin J. Burgess read: Melvin J. Burgess, only son of the late Joseph and Mary Burgess was born in Tyrone Township on October 10, 1859. His earliest years were spent on what is now the Melvin Hibner farm. At the age of 11 years he moved with his parents to the farm on which he lived the rest of his life. He received his education in the Hartland school. On May 21, 1890, he married to Ettie Placeway of Pinckney. To this union were born two sons, Joseph Lowell, who preceded his father in death by nearly four years, and William Leon, who works the farm. At an early age he was interested in church and civic affairs. He was a natural born musician. He was organist in the Congregational Church for eight years. He organized six bands during his lifetime. He was organizer of a six-piece orchestra which played for all social functions throughout the surrounding community during it's 20 years of existence. He has been active his entire life. Ten years ago he had the misfortune to lose his left arm in a corn husker. He made a remarkable comeback and was able to do many things in spite of his affliction. He and Mrs. Burgess celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary last May by holding open house. He departed this life Monday morning, December 17, 1945 at the age of 86 years, two months and seven days. He was a respected and outstanding citizen of the community, a devoted husband and father. He leaves to mourn his loss, his wife, one son, Leon, three grandchildren, Gerald, Janet and Mary Lou Burgess, besides other relatives and a host of friends. *[This obituary was found in the family Bible, but it did not name the newspaper it was published in.]