A good woman is worth more than rubies (Proverbs).
Melanie Ann VanTilburg, 50, born April 14, 1966 in Baltimore, Maryland finished her work on this earth February 4, 2017. Melanie went to be with her Lord and Savior in her home surrounded by her loving family after a courageous battle against Ovarian Cancer.
Melanie, a very positive, loving, giving person with an infectious smile, will be missed by the many people whose lives she touched. Some might say to know Melanie was to love Melanie. She had a strong Christian belief and was an active member of Mayflower Congregational Church. She taught Jr. Church and was involved on many committees and youth activities for many years.
Melanie, a hard worker, working at Hedstrom and Park Market in Ashland and the last twelve years for Ray Peterson Insurance. Ray and his wife Judy, became dear friends as well as her employer. She also was the friendly Avon lady to many.
A well rounded woman, she loved watching her son Coy play basketball. She was a big fan of Cal Ripken, the Washington Redskins, the Trans Siberian Orchestra, and rock music such as the Beatles and Rolling Stones. The family dog, Fendi, was always near her side.
Among the many left to cherish this beautiful woman’s memory are her husband and best friend of 20 years, Matthew VanTilburg; son, Coy VanTilburg; step son, Hunter Reed; and brother, Ron (Susan) Ballard. She leaves behind in-laws who considered her their daughter, Barb and Jim VanTilburg; brother-in-laws, Kip, Todd, Nathan (Candice) and Joshua VanTilburg; sister-in-law, Hope (Chris) Miller; many nieces and nephews that she dearly loved; and her Mayflower Church Family and many special friends.
Melanie was preceded in death by her parents, Eleanor Ballard and Thomas Arrington; a brother, George Ballard; brother-in-law, Benjamin VanTilburg and an infant brother-in-law, Jason VanTilburg.
Friends may call from 2-5 p.m. Sunday, February 12, 2017 at the Ontario Home of Wappner Funeral Directors, 100 South Lexington-Springmill Road, Ontario. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, February 13, 2017 at Mayflower Congregational Church, 548 North McElroy Road, Mansfield, Ohio 44905 conducted by Rev. Dr. Gary Wilson. Burial will follow in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made to the VanTilburg family to provide a memorial marker for Melanie.
Words of comfort may be expressed at www.wappner.com