Obituary of Melissa P. Janke

Melissa Preston Janke of Bay City, Michigan died on October 22, 2020 at her daughter's home in Essexville, MI. She was a fiercely independent woman who displayed determination and strength. She had a generous nature. Melissa was born in Bay City, MI on June 10, 1941. She was a lifelong resident. She was united in marriage to Richard J. Janke on June 14, 1960. Together, they shared their life for over 56 years. Dick and Melissa enjoyed spending time at their home in Charlevoix, boating on the Great Lakes, and entertaining friends and family. He predeceased her in 2016. Melissa attended T.L. Handy High School and was a beauty school graduate. She worked as a ward clerk at Bay Medical Center and owned the Ritz Hair Company. She treated her employees like family. She enjoyed playing the slots and was a frequent guest at the casino. Melissa created artistic gifts and crafts and loved decorating. She shared her artistic skills with her kids and grandkids. She is survived by her children: Scott J. (Susan) Janke, Jill (Bernie) Dean, Dana Bostick, and Molly (Bryan) Dorion. Beloved grandchildren: Blair & Addison Kozuch, Jason Bostick, Morgan Janke-Wolff, Riley, Lily & Lakin Dorion, and Kyle R. Janke. Sisters: Molly (Terry) Molyneaux and Alice Gregory; sister in law, Carmelita Whyte; along with nieces, nephews; many dear friends; and cousin, John (Jane) Muir. In addition to her husband, Dick, Melissa was predeceased by her parents Lyle and Bernadean McCormick, and her son, Douglas W. Janke. She received excellent care from Dobson Health Care Services and McLaren Hospice. Memorial contributions may be directed to The Saginaw Valley Ship Museum/USS Edson, 1680 Martin Street, Bay City, MI 48706. A family service will be held at the Great Lakes National Cemetery, Holly, MI and a celebration of life will be held at a time when we can safely gather together. To sign online guestbook, visit www.hyattewald.com Arrangements made with the Hyatt Ewald Funeral Home. All sympathy store items must be delivered to the family home.