Elizabeth Melling

Elizabeth Ann (Larson) Melling was born November 19, 1932 to Albert and Hilda (Demit) Larson.  Liz walked peacefully into the open arms of Jesus, surrounded by family, on November 27th, 2022 at Bishop Noa Home just days after her 90th Birthday celebration.

Liz graduated from Rapid River High in 1951.  She then went on to further her education with a degree in business administration from Northern Michigan University.  Liz worked numerous jobs while paying her way through college, all while raising her 4 children as a single mother.  Liz truly knew what hard work was, and never made excuses and never quit.  Upon graduation Liz held numerous administrative roles, and then found her forever career at OSF St Francis Hospital as the Laboratory staff administrator.  She retired from this position after decades of service.  Liz fondly recalled these days and the people that she worked with at OSF.  Liz was very proud to have been named the Union President of AFSME, AFL-CIO local 2653 for over 20 years.  In this role she fought for the rights of all employees at OSF and made a difference by doing so.

Upon retirement Liz enjoyed crocheting, making doll clothes for her great-grandchildren, playing bingo and the occasional slot machine, doing crossword puzzles and feeding the deer and birds.  She was a faithful catholic who never missed Saturday night mass at St. Charles Borromeo church in Rapid River, where she was also a member.

Liz will be sadly missed but fondly remembered for her devotion to family, her selflessness, her positive words of encouragement and above all her unwavering faith .  Those she loved never left without a hug and an “I love you & be safe”.

Liz is survived by her 4 children; Debra Combs of Green Bay, Margaret “Peggy” of Escanaba, Kevin Melling of Green Bay and Mary Guyette of Appleton.  She is also survived by her 8 grandchildren (and 3 spouses), whom she loved so dearly.  Liz selflessly gave to her grandchildren in numerous ways; and for that they will be forever grateful.  Liz’s pride and joy were her  12 great grandchildren which she referred to as “her kids”.  She lit up when they were in her presence; be it on the phone or in person.  She loved to talk to them about their day, about school and about sports.  They surely always remember Grandma always reminding them to “be good” and that she would be looking to see their name on the honor roll.   Liz is also survived by her sister Patsy “Pat” Winston of Casco, WI. along with numerous other nieces, nephews and cousins. She is also survived by her special friend and roommate, Maryann who she loved and cared for deeply.

Liz was preceded in death by her parents, 3 brothers and 4 sisters; George, James, Albert, Mary, Theresa, Margaret Larson and Lillian Kerekas.  She was also preceded in death by one great-grandson Ian Kamedulski.

Liz’s family would like to thank the nursing staff at Bishop Noa home for their compassion, professionalism, support and caring over the past year.

Family will receive friends on Monday, December 5, 2022, from 9 AM to 11 AM at Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone. Mass of Christian Burial will follow visitation at 12 noon at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in Rapid River with Rev. Fr. William Ssozi officiating. A luncheon will follow in the parish hall.