Mel Foster was born to the late Laurine Martin and Oscar "Sonny" Foster on April 17, 1950 in Lima, Ohio.  He was an only child raised with his 3 aunties who treated him as a brother.

Mel attended Lima Senior High School and graduated in 1968.  He was a dynamic athlete and was a member of Lima Senior 1968 basketball team that went to State.  He was known as a lights out shooter who had serious range and a locked down defender.  He had aspiration of playing college ball but decided to concentrate on education and becoming a successful businessman.  He attended Central State University and graduated in 1973 with a degree in business marketing. During his college years, he developed a brotherhood which today still remains as part of his family.  The brothers include Randal, Dwight, Marty, Roger, Leon and sister Betty.

Upon graduation, he started a career in sales with Xerox Corporation.  He then relocated to Los Angeles where he had resided for almost 40 years.  During his career in Los Angeles, he was named #1 Sales Executive with Marriott Hotels & Resorts for over 8 years.  He then became interested in finance and served as #1 Wholesale Mortgage Account Executive for Continental Savings and Downey Savings of America for over 20 years.  He was known for his tag line "Let's Make Money Together" and became a legend in the mortgage industry.  As many still remember his nickname as "Mel Man" as he always delivered.  He had recently started his own mortgage banking company along with his daughter Wendy, creating a father, and daughter team "Foster Lending Group" before his untimely death.  During years of significant achievements in his career, Mel was never selfish with his knowledge and experience.  He transformed numerous individuals into the professional world and helped people create better lives for themselves and for their families.

Mel was a faithful servant to the Lord and was an active member at West Angeles Church of God in Christ for 32 years, served as a deacon for 15 years and was voted deacon of the year 2014.  He became a pillar in his community where he loved and mentored many young men and women and was a father figure to many.  Mel believed in "Dreaming Big and Nothing is Impossible".  He taught many young people to reach for their dreams and achieve purposeful lives.  He also believed in always trusting in God and staying humble.  The wisdom he shared with others will benefit families for many generations.

Mel was truly a trailblazer and lived his life to the fullest.  His jovial personality, class, impeccable dress code, kindness and zest for life will definitely be remember by many.

Family and friends have always played a significant and prominent role in Mel's life.  He was the best father, grandfather and brother anyone could ask for.  Mel's late mother Laurine was the center of his heart whom he loved & cherished dearly.  His children Marquette, Wendy and Logan were his best friends and companions. Mel's love and concern for his three aunts/sisters Susie(Eva), Dee Dee and Linda Kay, and uncle/brother Clarence (CL) ways always apparent, and only wanted the best for them, as he did for his entire family.

Mel's incredible personality, style and will to help other was responsible for many to be drawn to him.  In his spare time Mel enjoyed fashion, music, fine dining and jazz festivals.

On Monday August 17, 2015, Mel was called home and entered the gates of heaven where he joined his beloved mother and father Laurine Martin and Oscar "Sonny" Foster whom preceded him in death.  He leaves to cherish his memories, strength, and wisdom his three devoted children Marquette Shurelds of San Francisco, CA., Wendy Shurelds Foster of San Diego, CA., and Logan Foster of Los Angeles, CA; four grandchildren, O'Sheena Shurelds; Akiera Shurelds; Dajaan Marks; and CinQue Shurelds. 3 aunts/sisters Susie (Eva) Peppers; Carol (Dee Dee) Butler; Linda Kay Dukes; 2 uncles/brothers Clarence (CL) Martin; Lee Martin Jr. whom preceded him in death all of Lima, Ohio; 3 bonus step-brothers Pastor Cleven Jones, Arillus Foster, of Lima, Ohio: Tony Jones of Evanville, IN. 4 bonus step-sisters  Delores Foster whom preceded him in death: Vanessa Adams; Kay Foster Scales; Vonda Foster all of Lima, Ohio; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins; extended family; co-workers and friends.

Mel will be remembered by his generosity, charm, strength and wisdom, as he will truly remain in our hearts as the one and only Mel Foster.  His legacy will continue on with his three children.