Melanie J. Sullivan's Obituary
Melanie J. Sullivan, a beloved daughter, devoted mother, cherished sister, and loving friend, passed away on May 29, 2024, at the age of 56. Melanie was born to her loving parents, Melvin Roller and Deanna Barsness, on July 25, 1967, in Starbuck, MN.
Melanie loved crafting and expressing her creativity. She often spent her weekends browsing thrift stores looking for something to refurbish, creating scrapbooks for her loved ones, making art, or tie-dyeing t-shirts to share with friends and family. She had a booth at a local antique store where she would sell her refurbished thrift store finds and crafted goods.
Melanie was first diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2015 and again in 2020. After going into remission in 2015, she decided to pursue a medical degree to work as a medical assistant in hopes of helping others. Melanie graduated in 2017 and began working as a medical assistant at Highlands Oncology, the same clinic where she received treatment for ovarian cancer. After going into remission again in 2020, she began working part-time as an administrative assistant for the Medical Director of Research at Highlands Oncology. Melanie lost her battle with Cancer after being diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia in March 2024.
Melanie's greatest joy in life was her family. She leaves behind her adoring parents, Melvin and Deanna, who instilled in her the values of kindness and perseverance. Melanie's legacy continues through her three sons: Kyle Sullivan (33) and his significant other, Kelsi Doyle; Cole Sullivan (30) and his wife Cynthia; and Cris Sullivan (26). Melanie's love and guidance will forever live on in her children's hearts, whom she raised with unconditional love and endless support.
In addition to her immediate family, Melanie is survived by her three brothers, Mike Roller and his wife, Carrie, Mark Roller, Danny Roller, and her sister, Mary Rud, and her husband, Steve. She also has five amazing nieces and nephews: Derrick Roller, Andrew Roller, Stephen Roller, Mariah Rud, and Madison Rud, and many dear friends and family, as well as her 11-year-old German Shepherd, Asta.
Melanie will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her kindness, strength, bravery, gentle spirit, and loving smile will forever be remembered and cherished by her family, friends, and colleagues.
We invite you to join us in honoring Melanie’s life at Pinnacle Memorial Gardens at Hunt Chapel 5930 S Wallis Rd. Rogers, AR, 72758 on Friday, June 14, 2024. The visitation will be from 1:00PM- 2:00PM., followed by the memorial service from 2:00PM-3:00PM. We look forward to sharing memories and celebrating the life of our beloved Melanie. As a tribute to Melanie's creativity and bright spirit, please wear something colorful or tie-dyed.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Hope Cancer Resources, a resource close to Melanie's heart. hopecancerresources.org
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