Racine – Shelly Marie Melby, age 52, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Monday morning, August 11, 2014 following a courageous battle with ovarian cancer.
Shelly was born in Racine on April 28, 1962. She attended Trinity Lutheran Grade School and graduated from Racine Lutheran High School in 1980.
On September 18, 1982 in Trinity Lutheran Church, Shelly was united in marriage with the love of her life, Robert M. Melby. Shelly had worked in a nursing home and daycare before fulfilling her lifetime dream of devoting herself to her family as a stay-at-home Mom. For almost 20 years Shelly had been employed by McDonald’s restaurant, most recently working in the office.
Wonderfully gifted as a people person, Shelly loved everybody. She was a volleyball fanatic who has played on various teams since the 1990’s. She also enjoyed bowling, crocheting, camping, going out with her volleyball family, supporting her husband’s passion of sailing at the Racine Yacht Club, and (believe it or not) loved to cut grass. Above all, Shelly loved being in the surroundings of all her family and friends. She especially loved “Monday Nights” with her mother, sisters and other family members.
Surviving are her loving husband of nearly 32 years, Robert “Bob” Melby; their children, Melissa (Joey) Zauner, Holly Melby and Zachary Melby; adored grandchildren, Joseph Zauner, Nathan Zauner and Mya Zauner; mother, Sally (nee: Cherney) Holterman; father, Richard (Joyce) Holterman; sisters, Joy (Mick) Barton, Robin Hagen and Amy (Don) Davis; brother-in-law, Richard “Rocky” Melby; nieces and nephews, Chrissy and Steve Barton; Chad (Erin) Hagen and Casey (Tyler) Pitt; Katlynne and Dakota Davis; other special relatives, neighbors and friends – too numerous to mention all by name.
Shelly was preceded in death by Bob’s parents, Melvin and Grace (nee: Erhardt) Melby.
A memorial service to celebrate Shelly’s life will be held in the Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home on Friday, August 15, 2014 at 6:00 pm with Rev. David Gehne officiating. A reception will follow at Roma Lodge. Visitation will be in the funeral home on Friday from 4:00 – 6:00 pm. Private entombment will take place in West Lawn Memorial Park. In memory of Shelly, memorials to the Jane Cremer Foundation have been suggested.
A heartfelt note of thanks to Wheaton Franciscan – All Saints Hospital, Cancer Center & Hospice and to Dr. Choi, Debbie & staff for the compassionate care and support; and to all of our family & friends for standing by our side during the past several months. Shelly truly loved all of you!
Susanne and Gary Friedrich says
Our condolences to Shelly’s family. Shelly was the best of friends, always there for everyone.
We will miss her and her contagious smile and wonderful sense of humor.
Cari Knapp says
We are so sorry for your loss! Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family!
Don and Colleen Olsen says
Were so glad we were able to sit with you and chat about old times. The fun we had sitting on the porch working on afghans, the kids playing and the fondue parties with women’s night out. The laugh’s we shared. We thank the Lord for the time we had on earth with you. See you there! Love you Shelly.
Alma Hilgenberg says
My deepest sympathy to melby family
Christina Paul says
I will always remember Shelly’s smile. I have great memories of her hanging out with us. I always thought to myself, what a cool mom! My prayers go out to everyone that is missing her.
���What we once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose, For all that we love deeply becomes a part of us.� Helen Keller
Laurie Tatum says
My heart goes out to all family members and friends of Shelly’s. You will be in my thoughts and prayers in this difficult time.
Timothy Loew says
Thanks for the wonderful fun filled memories we had when we were kids Shelly… no one could throw a mud-pie like you could… We will miss you ! Condolences to the family.Your old neighbor Tim Loew
Mike Loew says
Our condolences to the family. The Holterman’s were our neighbors for years and I still remember all the girls. So sorry to hear.
Mary Kochanski..Allonah and chase says
Shelley u where an amazing women and friend..miss Fri nite v-ball..praying for your family ,you will be missed terribly..
brian loew says
To Shelly’s entire family of loved ones:
My deepest sympathy to all. This really is a sorrowful loss. I was lucky to have had Shelly as a neighbor for so many years. God Bless you. Brian Loew
Dean Loew says
May God protect and comfort her immediate and extended families. I was young when I knew Shelly as her next door neighbor, but I remember her as a kind girl. You are in our prayers.