May 26, 1978 – April 16, 2022
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our sweet Melissa on April 16, 2022. The void is infinite but for those of us left behind it seems fitting to reflect upon and celebrate our undeniably good fortune to have crossed paths with the wit, force and charm that is Mel.
In her last days Melissa talked often and fondly of her “idyllic” childhood spent with her cherished family and lifelong friends under Alberta’s big skies. She felt a deep connection to and gratitude for her roots. It’s those years that can be credited for the unparalleled work ethic, grit, and quiet but steadfast fortitude with which she moved through life.
At an early age she developed a keen curiosity to learn and know the world. This inspired her to seek impressively vast and varied experiences, taking her to the halls of universities, remote tree planting camps, on-air studios, Central American jungles, honkytonk bars, roller derby rinks, Mexican zocalos, big cities filled with bright lights, and finally to the warmth and comfort of the home she built with her young family.
Like everything she embarked upon, Melissa approached her career with purpose and intention. Her work was integral to who she was and where she forged some of her most meaningful connections, leaving a lasting impact on the countless people she collaborated with.
Following years of footloose and fancy-free adventures, her priorities began to shift, making way for her greatest calling, creating a joyful life with her partner Matt, stepdaughters Juliette and Lucy and her beloved son Bodhi. Last year they fulfilled their dream to slow life down by settling in the beautiful mountains of British Columbia.
You were aces Melissa, through and through. We’ll meet up down the road one day. In the meantime, heeding your ever-sage advice, we’ll pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and carry on.
At Melissa’s request, a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Canadian Blood Services.
