In Memory Of

Melanie Kathleen Both

May 25, 1961 - Feb 8, 2023

Service

  We will have a celebration of Mels life later this year. All are welcome to attend, please feel free to contact Tammy or Kevin for more info.

Obituary

Both, Melanie Kathleen
1961-2023

Melanie Kathleen Both passed away suddenly in her home on February 8, 2023.
Melanie was the 1st born of Lee & Erva Both on May 25, 1961. Followed by her brother Kevin Both. Both were raised on a farm outside of Eckville Alberta. 1979 her baby sister Tammy was born.
Mel graduated from Rocky Mountain House High School in 1980. After graduation she found employment with Alberta Roads and met her life long friend Wendy Fitzsmons. Both had younger brothers named Kevin that drove them both crazy.
Erva Both (Heringer)(Predeceased 2021) Mels mom owned The Rainbow Cafe and the David Thompson Cafe in town, and Mel would work after school and weekend for her mom. She also worked in camp kitchens with Erva and adopted grandmother Florence Mcenulty (predeceased in 1999). The family recipe of Heringer cabbage rolls, was always Mels specialty.
In Mels early twenties the summers were always spent working at the Rocky Historical site as a ground keeper. Mel loved working with her hands, being outside enjoying the sunshine and working on her tan.
In 1988 she met Dan MacDonald (Predeceased 2017) and within a short time of starting a life together were blessed with twin boys. Dylan and Katlin Both MacDonald where born December 12, 1989. The boys where Mel’s whole world.
Mel had inherited her dads talent for carpentry, Thomas Leroy Both (Lee) (predeceased 1990). Her home had many items that were made by Lee or herself. So in 1998 when she found herself working as educational assistant in the fabrication lab in the High School it was second nature for her. She also had found a love for helping students over the years that carried on as friendships. Mel had also made many friends with her colleagues.
In adulthood Mel and her brother Kevin became close friends. Travelling together was an interest they shared and made memories on their trip to Alaska, Mexico and remember “What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas.”
In 2011 Mel was a chaperone for the West Central High School trip to England, Ireland & Wales. This was a great life experience for Mel and something she truly treasured.
In 2012 a new chapter in Mels life started. She moved into town with Heather Jones who was also an educational assistant and offered Mel a place to stay and they became great friends.
In 2015 Mel bought her own little house in town. Her hard work and pride was reflected in her home. She formed more friendships with her neighbours, and enjoyed many nights sitting around a backyard fire talking about life.
Mel had a calming peaceful soul and would win the trust of all animals around her, this is something she shared with her little sister Tammy.
Life brings people into our lives when we need them. Brenda Totten was one of those souls. Brenda was a dear friend and helped Mel deal with the passing of her mom. If Mel called you friend you were a friend for life.
Mel cherished all her aunties, uncles and cousins. Family reunions were always a good time. She loved being active in sports including tennis, fishing, rafting and soft ball. Know to some as the “Grunter”. While playing ball, Mel was tiny and when she swung the bat she put everything she had into it and would let out a big grunt.
Mel lived her best life, surrounding herself with love from everyone that knew her. Making memories and sharing her life was more important than having worldly possessions.
As we morn and try to come to terms with Melanie’s sudden passing. I am sure she would tell us all that she had a great life and was loved by many.
“Take some time to grieve for me but don’t stop living”.

Melanie Kathleen Both will be greatly missed by her boys Dylan and Katlin Both MacDonald, Brother Kevin Both and family Jessie & Nicole, Aaron & Kim, Emily & Kaylee, Katie & Carter. Sister Tammy Hall and family Ashley, Sara & Abby. Auntie Gloria and all the Both families. The many extended Heringer families and MacDonald families. She meant so much to so many and our apologies if we have missed someone.

We will have a celebration of Mels life later this year. All are welcome to attend, please feel free to contact Tammy or Kevin for more info.
Rocky and Sylvan Lake Funeral Homes and Crematorium, your Golden Rule Funeral Homes, entrusted with the arrangements, 403 845 2626

Condolences

Brenda Docherty:

I was shocked and saddened to hear Mel had passed. We were roommates many years ago and we drove our elderly landlord crazy with our antics but we sure had a lot of fun! I have so many great memories of the times we spent with Cheryl, Bonnie, Fay and Gay just to name a few. So many good times, great laughs and wonderful memories. It didn’t matter how many years since we had seen each other, she would always yell the same old greeting… “roomie!” I was able to enjoy another visit with her at the “last party “ at the Martin house in Rocky, it was so nice to see her again and we all shared the same great laughs as always.
My thoughts are with her family and friends. Rest easy Mel. You will be missed by everyone.

Jadyn Maxwell :

I was a student of Mel’s from 2017-2021, and I will forever admire her passion of not only carpentry, but of helping her students find success in it. When I joined construction, I had very little to no experience, and by the end of our time together I found that I was not only surprised by how much I had learned, but I was proud of all my accomplishments. I owe that to Mel. My heart is with the family, she will be missed by so many.

Suzy Harder:

I met Mel in 2003 when I started working at WSHS in the shop class. Our friendship carried over to WCHS and then continued even after I was transferred to another school. Mel was an amazing support for the students, always helping them to complete there projects, getting supplies and tidying up at the end of the day! Mel was an easy friend to get to know and one that enjoyed the great outdoors. I enjoyed many after work refreshments and long conversations with her. I was so saddened when I seen this obituary… RIP my friend, until we meet again. Sending condolences to the boys, you were her everything… so sorry for your loss.

Judy Cherniak:

My condolences to Mel’s family. I only had the pleasure of working with Mel for 5 years and she made me feel welcome every day. One of the kindest people I’ve met. She will be missed.

Benita Olson :

Our condolences to Mel's family and friends. We have many wonderful memories of Mel.

Shirley Nelson:

My Condolences to Mel’s family. I have fond memories of playing ball with Mel.

Nicole Bellamy:

I'm so sorry to hear this. My condolences go out to the family. she will be greatly missed! she was a great person! Rest in peace Melanie. From my family to your family!!!

Gloria:

My ROCK,my confidant and my great friend---I really miss you and love you . REST IN PEACE my girl

Brenda Brown:

My heart broke when I heard of Mel's sudden passing. I had been at the old high school for 5 years when Mel joined our staff. She was fun to work with, and loved by staff and students alike. I was blessd to continue working with Mel when we moved to Confluence Campus, a total of 22 years, together. I throughly enjoyed her sweet smile, and the conversations we had. I know Mel made a huge impact on all the students, staff, and community she encountered. She will be missed by so many, including me.
Thank you for the memories, my friend. Rest easy.
Love Brenda

Garry and Karen heringer:

Our Condolences. so young, Our thoughts and Prayers for the family.

Susan Campbell:

I am so very saddened to hear of Mel’s passing. I will certainly remember her kindness and laughs. Rest in peace Mel and my deepest condolences to her boys and family.

Cindy Koroluk.:

My condolences to the whole family. Mel was a great person & an awesome friend we used to play ball together & just hang out. When I was working or holidaying I would send Mel post cards to keep her updated. I would love to attend the celebration of life.

Doreen Guilloux:

So sorry she has passed. I worked with Mel at Will Sinclair. Condolences to her family.

Kathy Murch:

Mel was so kind and caring. She will be missed by all that knew her. My deepest sympathies to her boys and all of her friends and family.

Jason Steppler :

In high school my safe place was the shop. Mel provided me so many different experiences, and let me assist younger students with their projects. Mel inspired me to become a teacher. Honestly, I doubt I would have seen my true capabilities without her. She will be greatly missed.

Debbie Brown:

Mel and I were part of the misfits slow pitch team back in the day. She was the Grunter”. We made many tournament in her green van. She was a good friend and I will miss her. I would love to attend her celebration of life.

Corinne Koroluk:

Sorry for your loss. My condolences to all. Mel will be missed. We enjoyed many good times together.

Barb Donnelly:

Mel was such a nice person and it was a pleasure working with her. She will be truly missed.

Tracy Knopp:

A beautiful soul taken too soon. I will miss our chats in the halls at WC and am glad to have had you in my life these 10+ years. Rest easy Mel and know that you are missed <3. Big hugs to all of her family and friends.

Jenaya dressler :

My condolences to Mel's family she was a great person and teacher I was with the school trip to Europe and got to travel with her for the school trip I will miss her lots :(

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