Melvin Haines Jr
Modesto, California, United States
June 30, 1949 - January 02, 2026
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Michelle
You were my "Pa" for almost exactly half of my life... you came into my family 5 days before I turned 23, and left us 7 days after I turned 46... you were such an important part of my life, always there with a helping hand when I needed it most - at times the only hand that was extended at some of the lowest points in my life, and I will always remember and appreciate that more than you could ever know. We had so many good times - in Washington, in Sacramento, and in Modesto. You could be counted on to bring me little things I loved, as I did for you. That was kinda "our thing". Nobody got more excited for my brownies, my cookies, my cakes, and all the snacks I would make just for you! Who am I gonna bake for now? I know you're with your trio, Reggie, Peanut, and Miss Maui, and they are so excited to see you and pile onto your lap to watch the ballgame. I know you're no longer in pain, the pain and hurt in your eyes was more than I could bear in that final month. I promise I will make sure my mama is taken care of and she is safe and that she knows she is loved, and that you loved her with all your heart and soul. I will be forever grateful for your presence in my life, how you led by example to guide me to become a good person, a better person than I was when this whole thing started. I feel luckier than most, since some people don't even get ONE good father in their lives - I hit the jackpot by scoring two amazing Dads. That's why I don't buy Lotto tickets. I exhausted all the luck I would've had... and now you both are gone, but I am richer for having the opportunity to have both in my life. You will be missed terribly, the gaping hole you left in our hearts is aching. Who loves you, Pa? Shell does.
A life well lived
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Melvin Edward “Skip” Haines, Jr. passed away peacefully at his home in Modesto, California, on January 2, 2026, at the age of 76, after a brief battle with lung cancer.
Skip was born on June 30, 1949, in Salem, Oregon, to Melvin and Ethel Haines, the third of four children. A proud graduate of North Salem High School, Class of 1967, he later moved to the San Francisco Bay Area in the 1970s, beginning a new chapter in California.
He spent most of his adult life on the road as a truck driver, a career that suited his independent spirit and love of travel. A lifelong fan of the Oakland Athletics and an enthusiastic lover of the blues—especially the music of Stevie Ray Vaughan and Joe Bonamassa—Skip’s passions brought him great joy.
Stubborn at times, always thoughtful, and endlessly passionate, Skip lived life on his own terms. He wasn’t perfect (and made no claims to be), but those who knew him appreciated his sincerity, humor, and genuine heart. Children, older folks, and dogs alike were drawn to him—proof enough, he’d say, that he was doing something right.
Skip was a devoted member of the Church of Christ in Oakdale, California. He is survived by his beloved wife and soulmate, Betsy, whom he married on December 21, 2002, and by their beautiful blended family: Karen Martinez of Vallejo, Julie King of Sacramento, Kevin Haines of Lodi, Troy Barros of Modesto, Joseph Barros of Fremont, and Michelle (David) Bender of Modesto. He also leaves behind eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren who will carry his memory in their hearts. There will be a Celebration of Life held in Modesto on February 7, 2026 at his daughter’s residence. He will be greatly missed and never forgotten.
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