Obituary of Melanie Joy Wickenheiser

Melanie Joy Wickenheiser was born on January 12, 1959 in Waverly, Tennessee. She was one of eight children born to the late James Earl and Mildred Eloise (Blackburn) Baker. Mel had many memories of her childhood in Stoney Point when her life was carefree and easy. Her world revolved around her daughters Melanie Joy Barron and Charlee Lynn Barron. The consummate caregiver, she worked many years in home healthcare.

On January 13, 1994 Mel wed Roger Wickenheiser at the Chapel of the former Mercy Memorial Hospital in Monroe. The pair had a blast attending country artist’s concerts together. Mel had a green thumb and enjoyed spending time in the garden and tending to her plants. She loved playing bingo and planned trips to the casinos with friends every chance she could get.

Melanie Joy Wickenheiser, age 63, of Monroe, Michigan passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday; October 25, 2022. In addition to her parents, her passing was preceded by her two daughters and siblings: Ernie Baker, Peggy Snyder, Sandra Yinger, Marcia Rojem, and David Baker.

To cherish her memory, she leaves her husband: Roger; two grandchildren: Jada Lynn Minkler and Makiya Charlee Cole; one sister: Vicki Baker Tank; one brother: Michael (Marlene) Baker of Florida; an aunt: Shirley Bollins; and many in-laws, nieces and nephews, and friends.

Friends may gather on Tuesday; November 1, 2022 from 12:00pm until 1:00pm at Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe; 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan 48162 (734) 384-5185.   A Celebration of Mel’s Life officiated by Pastor B.J. McDaniel will begin at 1:00pm also at Merkle’s. Cremation has taken place through Covenant Cremation of Erie, Michigan. Burial of her cremated remains will take place at Roselawn Memorial Park in LaSalle, Michigan, at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions towards funeral arrangements. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.