Melvin D. Goatley, Jr.

Melvin Douglas Goatley, Jr., 49, of Maumee, rounded third base in the game of life on Earth and safely made it to home to advance to the next level of eternal life on Thursday, October 18, 2012 surrounded by his loving family and friends. Mel was born in Toledo on November 26, 1962 and raised in Maumee by his parents, Melvin and Gloria and was a great and protective big brother to Mark and Jeff.

Mel was extremely talented when it came to sports. He earned 7 varsity letters in football, basketball and baseball. Mel was co-captain of the varsity baseball team, was 7 times All-District and ultimately earned a football scholarship to Akron University. It was at college where he met the love of his life, Lisa, his wife of 28 years and had three sons, Joshua, Bradley and Matthew, whom he adored.

Mel spent most of his career with Kimberly-Clark Corporation where he excelled as a sales rep earning numerous awards and recognition including salesman of the year as well as the respect of his colleagues and customers. His greatest passion was coaching his travel baseball team, the Maumee Knights. He treated all his players like sons and he was often referred to as "Big Mel" by them. Mel also coached the first 5th/6th grade youth football team to be undefeated champions and was President of Maumee Little League.

Mel adored his wife and sons and dedicated his life to giving them the most. He had a big heart and a big personality. Mel was always quick to help others and his generosity and loyalty will greatly be missed.

Mel is survived by his loving wife, Lisa; sons, Joshua, Bradley and Matthew; father and mother, Mel and Gloria; brothers, Mark (Shelly) and Jeff (Laura); father and mother-in-law, Larry and Nancy Anderle; sister-in-law, Cheryl (Mort); brother-in-law, Larry (Pam); nephews, Zac, Jacob, Grant, Jeffery, Lawrence and Arman; nieces, Megan and Ariana; his loyal companion, Maximus; and many dear friends.

The family will receive guests on Sunday from 2 – 7:00 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home, 4752 Heatherdowns Blvd., Toledo (419-381-1900). Funeral Services will begin Monday at 10:00 a.m. in the funeral home. Interment will follow in Toledo Memorial Park.

Those wishing to make monetary donations are asked to consider the American Diabetes Association.