Michael J. Mellin

1963 - 2022

Mellin, Michael J. MAPLEWOOD Michael J. Mellin, 59, the beloved choir director of St. Basil's Russian Orthodox Church in Maplewood, N.Y., died unexpectedly Friday, August 19, 2022, at his home. Michael was born in Derby, Conn., on August 2, 1963, and was the son of the late Francis W. Mellin and Marilyn (Cadwell) Mellin Hudobenko. He grew up in Monroe, Conn. and later in Seymour, Conn., where he graduated from Emmett O'Brien Technical School in 1981. From a very young age Michael was witty and enjoyed bantering. He had a natural ability to make people laugh and feel good. He enjoyed books and reading and had a love for Star Wars and Harry Potter movies. Anyone who knew Michael was better off because of it. Michael was employed, for many years, by the former Spiak's Restaurant in Maplewood. He will most be remembered for his serving as choir director of St. Basil's Russian Orthodox Church, Maplewood (Watervliet), for many years. He was a graduate of St. Tikhon's Seminary in Waymart, Pa., (Orthodox Church in America), and was tonsured as a reader in the Orthodox Church. Gifted with a beautiful and powerful voice, he took great pride in the precision and quality of the choirs who were privileged to sing under his direction. He was a humble and kind Christian who always tried to accommodate everyone, at all times, and in all things. He never complained and always fulfilled everything that was asked of him. He patiently endured his physical ailments and always exhibited a cheery demeanor. He served as the choir director of St. Andrew's Brotherhood, a pan-Orthodox group of the Capital District. When called upon, he always generously shared his superb musical talents in numerous parishes. He leaves behind many colleagues, friends, and brothers and sisters in Christ who loved him very much and will miss him very much. "Grant rest eternal in blessed repose with the saints, O Lord, to the soul of Thy newly-departed, the ever-memorable choir director Reader Michael, who has fallen asleep in the Lord, and may his memory be eternal!" In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brothers: Kenneth, William and Russell; and his sisters: Rustina Thulin and Grace Durrani. He is survived by several stepsisters, many cousins and leaves behind his fiancee, Jen Werner, and many dear friends. He adored his family and friends. Michael will be received into St. Basil's Russian Orthodox Church, 21 Archibald Street, Maplewood (Watervliet) on Thursday, August 25, at 9 a.m. with a brief Litya (prayer service). The Psalter will be read until 11 a.m. at which time the funeral service will commence. Visiting hours will be held from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m. in the church. Michael's burial will be in St Basil's Cemetery (Elm Street) immediately after the funeral service. Following the burial service, a meal in Michael's honor will be held at St. Basil's Center, 23 Archibald St., Maplewood (next to the church). To those who wish to remember Michael in a special way, donations may be given to St. Basil's Russian Orthodox Church, 6 Lansing Avenue, Watervliet, NY 12189, to assist with his funeral expenses. Please visit www.parkerbrosmemorial.com to leave a fond remembrance of Michael and for driving directions.