Santa Cruz

Melvin Howard Kinder, a beloved father, grandfather, and esteemed member of the Santa Cruz community, passed away peacefully at his home on March 15, 2025, at the age of 86. Born onJuly 7, 1938, in Los Angeles, he was the son of Omar Franklin Kinder and Fay Scherling Kinder.

Mel's life was defined by a commitment to education, service, and community. He graduated from Pacifica High School in San Bernardino before attending UC Riverside, UC Irvine, and ultimately graduating from UCLA. In 1962, Mel answered the call to service by joining the Peace Corps, where he and his wife, Dorothy (Dottie) Ann, served under the leadership of President John F. Kennedy and traveled to Nepal where he worked at Bir Hospital in Kathmandu. This experience had a profound impact on him, shaping the rest of his life and career.

After returning from Nepal, Mel's dedication to teaching shaped the lives of many. He spent years as ahigh school educator at Tehachapi High School, where he made a lasting impact on his students. From 1969 to 1973, he also taught “Black History” as well as reading and writing at Soledad Prison, using education as a tool for empowerment and transformation.

In addition to his passion for teaching, Mel was a skilled and highly regarded Volvo mechanic and amateur actor-singer. For over 40 years, he earned the trust and affection of his many clients and customers. His craftsmanship and expertise helped keep scores of Santa Cruz’s Volvos on the road for decades, and he became a beloved figure in the community and those who relied on his skill and service. Mel also spent many years participating with the local acting troupe at both the Staircase and Barn Theaters. While Mel had several great roles, such as Officer Krupke in West Side Story, his most memorable role was as the Grand Vizier in Kismet.

Mel was married to Dorothy Ann from 1957 to 1975, and together they raised two children, Alixa Lee Totten and Cameron Page Kinder. After their marriage, Mel and Dorothy maintained a close friendship that lasted throughout his life.

Mel is survived by his daughter, Alixa Lee Totten and son-in-law Lon Totten; son, Cameron Page Kinder; and grandson, Julius Kenneth Kinder. He also leaves behind Patricha Wells, his girlfriend of many years and his dear friend Finn Rich who was byhis side at the very end. He will be remembered fondly by his family, friends, former students, and all those who knew him through his work as a teacher, actor and mechanic.

Mel’s legacy of service, teaching, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. Rest in peace, Mel, you will be dearly missed but forever remembered. Friends, Family and acquaintances are invited to a celebration of life at DeLaveaga Park, Forty Thieves Picnic Area on July 12th from Noon to 4PM. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Peace Corps.