"Shawn and family, We are so sorry to read of your mom's death. She always had a smile and it seems like yesterday that your dad died. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers and she is now enjoying the last chapter of her book in heaven - eternal rest. Cherish all the memories. Dennis & Mary Dettmering"
In loving memory of
Melissa King
September 14, 1956 - February 9, 2023
Melissa Lee (Burkhart) King passed away on February 9, 2023 at Aspirus Rhinelander Hospital. She was 66 years old. Born to Robert and Diane Burkhart on September 14, 1956 in Waukegan, Illinois, Melissa was the youngest of four children. Later, she married the love of her life, James King, on November 2, 1980 at the First Congregational Church in Waukegan.
She was a graduate of Waukegan East High School. After dreaming and talking about it for years, in 2010 Melissa and Jim relocated to Summit Lake to live "Up North." Most recently, she was employed at Pick n' Save.
Melissa enjoyed finding the funny in life. She often made others laugh by her directness and humorous disposition. She loved spending time with her children and grandchildren, sewing special projects for them, and baking desserts. Melissa treasured living Up North enjoying the changing seasons, peaceful environment, and wildlife. When chatting with friends or family, she frequently had them in tears from laughing so much as she recounted one of her everyday Northern experiences.
Melissa is survived by her children, Michelle (Ricky) Dove of Almo, Kentucky, John (Mary) King of Guam, and Shawn (Ashley) King of Pearson; six grandchildren, Kyle (Aaron), Zehira, Aliza, Edward, Charlotte, and Henry; siblings Carrie Taylor of Antioch, Illinois, Heather (Jim) Dorsey of Gurnee, Illinois, and Steve (Melinda) Burkhart of Ventura, California; and sister-in-law Debbie King of Green Bay.
She was preceded in death by her loving husband and parents.
Following Melissa's wishes, a private service will be held.
Tributes
"I'm glad Melissa is back with her Jim?"
"Nothing short of a true sweetheart and angel! What a sense of humor she had here on earth?.. I?m sure she has them all smiling in Heaven??????"
"We are so sorry for your loss. Our heart breaks for you Shawn and Ashley and your entire family. Our condolences and sympathy. "
"John, Mary, and all of the King family we are so sorry for your loss. Melissa sounds so much like you John- especially with her humor and kindness. She truly made the world a better place with her life and we pray she is now resting peacefully in heaven. "
"Shawn and family I am so very sorry to hear of your Moms passing my thoughts and prayers are with you! Hugs Annmarie Gallenberger "