Hey all, as you can imagine the family is still reeling from the very sudden passing of Melissa. Any contribution is so very much appreciated.

Mark asked that I share this message below:

As most of you have learned by now my sister Melissa passed away this week. To say this has shaken our family to the core would only scratch the surface of emotional layers we are experiencing and will continue to experience as we process our loss.

I want and need to do everything in my power to help ease - at the very least - the financial stress that is now falling onto my parents. The intent of this GoFundMe is two-fold: 1) cover her cremation and Celebration of Life and 2) help my nieces and nephew transition as smoothly as possible into their “new normal” with their father in Indiana.

Anything above and beyond those expenses will be put into a trust for the kids to be used for their higher education, in honor of my sister's passion...teaching. Thank you all for the messages, prayers and love you continue to shower my family with.