"So sorry to hear of Melissa passing. She was a beautiful lady inside and outside. She will be greatly missed by all. May God hold her family close to his heart during this time of loss. "
In loving memory of
Melissa Kathleen Frendo
April 17, 1959 - July 15, 2020
Melissa Kathleen (Burton) Frendo, age 61, died peacefully and surrounded by family in her home in Hesperia, MI on 7/15/20. Born to Evelyn (Wanket) and Robert Burton in La Jolla, CA on 4/17/59, Melissa served Hesperia Community Schools for over 30 years. In her capacity as daycare director, elementary school counselor, and first grade teacher, she touched many lives. Her passion for education and thirst for knowledge is not only reflected in her achievements, both professionally and academically, (Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Aquinas College, Masters in Counseling from University of LaVerne, Masters in Education from Aquinas College), but in the achievements of her children and grandchildren. Her legacy lives in her daughters Rebecca, Molly, and Genevieve, her son Joseph Benjamin, and her grandsons Jackson, Macgwire, and Braddock.
Melissa is survived by her husband of 41 years, Joseph Hubert Frendo. They were engaged after 6 weeks of dating and married on 6/15/79. Yet another sterling example of Melissa's commitment and spirit, she loved fiercely, deeply and was equally loved in return; by her husband, by her family, by her friends. That spirit never dampened or darkened, even as she battled ovarian cancer, and there is no doubt that she is spreading love and light amongst those who preceded her death, including her grandson Joseph Scott.
Our family wishes to thank the teams at Spectrum Hospice and Palliative Care for taking such special care of our mother. Due to the complication implicit to COVID-19, details for a memorial to celebrate her life will be made available at a later date; we are looking forward to safely honoring her memory together. In the meantime, please share any memories, anecdotes or kind words about her via email (frendofamilyfoundation@gmail.com). She made the lives of those around her better every day and it's been so meaningful to hear from others how she influenced them. If you wish to donate, in lieu of flowers, there will be a trust set up under her name to purchase clothes, shoes, personal items, etc. for children in need at Hesperia Community Schools.
Rest now, sweet Mama.
Tributes
"So sorry for your loss. Melissa was such a wonderful person ???"
"So very sorry for your loss. She was an amazing lady. Her smile was contagious as was her passion for the students she served. Prayers for your famly. Jeanie Rusco-Nicolai "
"We will love to the moon and back!!! Till we meet again sweet Missy!!! Anne Dale Nick Nicky & Mary"
"Words cannot describe how much Melissa and the entire Frendo family mean to the Coopers. Over the years, you have been so special to us, you have welcomed us into your home and you have made us feel like we are honorary Frendo's. Not only were you Jodie's best friend, you held a very special spot in all our hearts. Becky, Molly, "Joey F" and Ginny - you are all like our children. We have lost a truly wonderful person and an even better friend. Rest in Peace Melissa."
"Joe and family, I was so sorry to learn of Melissa's passing. She was one of the sweetest person's I've ever known. Her contributions to children and elders in our community was very special. Hold tight to all your memories now. Please accept my prayers for comfort and peace."