ALLEN PARK -- Per usual, the tailgate scene at Detroit’s Eastern Market on Sunday was lively and energetic as Lions fans geared up for the home opener at Ford Field against the Chicago Bears.

Among the many setups at the popular location was a bittersweet moment of solidarity.

Near Shed 3 on Russell Street, a group of Lions fans gathered for a pregame toast to honor “The Governor,” Melvin Cotton, a well-known tailgater in the community who passed away in May.

Cotton, a diehard Lions fan and cancer survivor from Eastpointe, was on one of his frequent trips to Aruba with his wife, Manessa -- a trip he insisted on taking, telling her, “This might be my last time going to Aruba.”

Sadly, he was right.

Melvin fell ill during the trip, prompting Manessa to cut it short and return to Michigan

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