Obituary of Melanie Sue Schilling

In Loving Memory

Melanie Sue (Mel, May, Mellibelli, Mellie) Pray Schilling of Golden, Colorado formerly of Kankakee, Illinois, passed away on October 17th, 2022.  Born on August 7th, 1960, to Shirley Pray Lamb and Robert W. Eldridge.  She passed peacefully with her mother and loving family by her side.  Cremation rites have been accorded.

 

Melanie's death was unexpected, having just celebrated her 62nd birthday.  She had stayed strong for the past several years battling many health issues.  Melanie believed there was a reason for it all, even if she didn't know what it was...

 

Melanie was born at St. Mary's hospital in Kankakee, Illinois.  Being raised by her mother Shirley, she graduated from Kankakee Westview high school in 1978.  A true Kayhawk forever.  Even after graduation she enjoyed keeping in touch with her friends and classmates, looking forward to each, and every class reunion.  As much as she loved her hometown, she also loved the Rocky Mountains.  Deciding between the two places to live was always a struggle.  (The mountains won).  Melanie was so loving and the constant caretaker of the family, having cared for many family members throughout the years.  She had worked as a nurse’s aide and later at Blackhawk Casino, before her health forced her to retire.  Melanie loved being in the mountains and camping.  She enjoyed needlepoint, crocheting and music.  Journey being her favorite specifically Steve Perry was her absolute favorite.  Even though she shouldn't have them, she loved to have a little snack cake on occasion. 

 

Waiting for her at the gates of heaven, Melanie was preceded in death by the light of her life her daughter, Cori Marie Schilling; her beloved grandparents Vernon and Corine (Corky) Pray; loving stepfather, Robert Lamb; Aunt Linda and Uncle Ron; biological father and brother, David Gilbert and David Gilbert Jr.

 

Melanie is survived by her mother, Shirley Lamb; father, Robert Eldridge; sisters/spouses, Dawn Eldridge, Stacey and Robin Slaughter, Veronica and Rob Rose; brothers/spouses, Guy and Becky Eldridge, Gill and Debbie Eldridge, sister Corinna Gilbert, best friend Delilah Paris, and many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews and cousins.  A special mention for her constant companions and snuggle buddies, Melanie's cats Pumba, Samantha and Timon...

 

Even though we can't have you with us any longer, we find some peace knowing that you and Cori are together again. Fly high Melanie Sue… you are our Angel!  You are the epitome of kindness; we will think of you often and with love always.

 

A celebration of Melanie's life will be held at her sister Veronica's home in Parker, Colorado on Sunday November 13th beginning at 1pm.

 

For more info and address please contact Stacey and or Delilah at stay.raymo@gmail.com or delilahparis5@gmail.com .  The family asks that in lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your local animal shelter in Melanie's honor.