Melanie Ann Erickson

Melanie Ann Erickson, 62, passed away Tuesday, November 8, 2022 at home. She was born to Bob and Anna Watkins in July of 1960. Lived on Whidbey Island until grade school in Edmonds, WA, then returned to Whidbey in high school. She attended Everett Community College and George Fox College with a degree in Christian Ministries.

She met her husband, Mark at George Fox and got married in Great Falls, Montana in 1983. Before that her bucket list included a mission's trip to the Philippines where she spent a summer of service. 

She and Mark lived in Newberg, Oregon in the 80’s and spent a year in the Dominican Republic teaching at a Christian school. 

They returned to start their family. After losing their first child in miscarriage they had Kelsey in 1990 and Amy in 1992. The family eventually moved to Eastern Montana where they raised the girls in farm country. 

It was a blessing to be together sharing activities. Melanie worked at the girls' school as a teacher’s aide and spent some years as athletic director. She loved being able to attend all their sport and school activities, Awana, and church events together. 

The family moved to Missoula in 2008 and immediately fell in love with Missoula Alliance Church. Melanie especially enjoyed the opportunities for community service. Later she would be on staff as Senior Adult Director, which was her dream job, meeting practical needs, encouraging sharing of personal stories of God’s faithfulness. It was challenging but gave her purpose. Her experience at Burlington Square Apartments was helpful. She was part of Missoula Aging Services Advisory Council. 

The Cancer Diagnosis came unexpectedly. Received tremendous support from friends and family near and far. Her goal was to allow feelings but not stay in depths of despair. Was given over a year of normal activity despite side effects.

She loved her family, her savior, and her church family.

Survived by her husband, Mark, daughters, Kelsey, and Amy. Brothers, Lou and Sharon Pappas, Dennis and Jan Pappas, Rob, and Lorrie Watkins. Four grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, extended family, and friends. 

We miss her, love her, and will embrace again in the kingdom of God!

“To live is Christ, To die is gain”