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Melissa Ajavananda Obituary
Rochester: July 19, 2008, age 37. Loving mother of newborn, Devon Melissa Gersh and beloved wife of David Gersh, has passed suddenly. Melissa will be greatly missed by her parents, Carol & Vithya Ajavananda; her sisters, Maggie (Ken), Carolyn, Marilyn, Kimberly (Kerry) & Rebecca (E.J.); brother, Vithya Jr. (Christina); 4 nieces; 4 nephews; her mother & father-in-law, Michael & Janet Gersh; sister-in-law, Ellen (Archie); her adoring dogs, Montee, Lilly & Ditto; 2 horses, Ben & Saxon; and many devoted friends. Melissa, whom her mother called "special fours" was compassionate and driven in every facet of her life. She earned her Masters in Education from Nazareth College and taught for the last 8 years at School #46 in Rochester as a special education teacher. A tenacious competitor, both horses and dog agility competitions were her passions. She and her Jack Russell Terrier Montee ultimately earned the title of Agility Dog Champion ADCH and was an accomplished horseback rider in the Hunter discipline.
Memorial calling, Thursday 3-7 PM at Falvo Funeral Home, 1295 NINE MILE POINT ROAD, WEBSTER (Rte 250, North of Plank). In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Arthritis Foundation-Hope Through Heroes, 3300 Monroe Ave., Suite 319, Rochester, NY 14618, 585-264-1480 (please make sure to specify that the donation is in memory fo Melissa Ajavananda if you call or mail the donation or you can go to www.arthritis.org, click on donation link, click on the honor and memorial gifts link and search for Melissa by name to get her personalized page. A Memorial Service will be held in Melissa's honor at St. Margaret Mary Church in Irondequoit at a future date. Interment, private.
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Memories and Condolences
for Melissa Ajavananda
Sponsored by The Ajavananda Family.
miguel bermudez
March 15, 2014
Megie siento mucho LA perdida de tu Herman's men or me sorprendio mucho cuando buscando tu hombre en face book me encontre con este dolorosa notisia que dips the bendiga at I y tu Camila de parts de Miguel Bermudez franklin high so the acuerdas de mi yo nunca the olbidado the deseo much a suerte
Christine (Haviland) Shanahan
February 16, 2014
Ajavananda and Gersh Family,
I went to high school with Missy and we were dear friends. We lost contact after HS. I am so saddened to learn of her passing 6 yrs ago. My thoughts and prayer are with your family today. I am so sorry for your loss, she truly was an amazing, kind person. She made me laugh even thru the toughest parts of HS!!! I am sad we lost contact so long ago.
Peggy Weidmann
September 13, 2008
David and the Ajavanonda family,
It has been 6 weeks and I still cannot believe that Missy is gone. Missy and Dawn have been friends for so long I have thought of her as part of the family. She traveled to Florida with us many times. She would come over to the house with hers or her sisters dogs. Through the years I grew to admire her and her dedication and strength. I know that Devon will grow up knowing what a strong person her mother was in so many ways. As a mother I wish I could make the pain go away that my daughter Dawn is feeling. Not a day goes by that she does not shed a tear for Missy. David I can't even imagine what it must be like for you. Just know that you are in my constant thought and prayers. With the help of you, your family and friends, Devon will grow to know her mother in a very special way. I loved Missy as a daughter and will forever miss her. My prayers are with you, Devon and the Ajavanonda family
Lisa Sutherland
August 22, 2008
I didn't know Melissa well, only as a teacher at my daughter's school. But she stands out in my memories of those years as a warm, funny, and truly dedicated teacher. She was always supportive of the kids she taught, and of the parents who were involved in the school. I was deeply saddened to hear of her passing and hope that you can feel at least a little comforted by the knowledge that she touched so many lives in such a positive way.
Shannon (Lombard) Metzler
August 12, 2008
I went to high school with Melissa and she and I were roommates for a semester at SUNY Morrisville. I have some of the funniest memories of her. She was beautiful, silly, sincere and one of my closest friends. Your family will be in my prayers.
Stephanie Weigel
August 6, 2008
David..I know how important yor family is to you. I am so sorry for your loss. You and Devon are in my prayers and I pray for the peaceful rest of your wife Melissa.
Jim Harold
August 6, 2008
To the Gersh and Ajavananda Families:
Our deepest sympathies at this very difficult time. I was a good friend of Maggie’s many years ago and remember Melissa as a very young child. My family and I will keep you all in our prayers.
Joan Arthur (Asst.Principal)
July 29, 2008
To the Gersh and Ajavananda Families:
Our school family extends sincere condolences to all of you on the loss of your beloved Melissa. Our thoughts are with you during this time of sorrow.
John James Audubon School 33 Staff
Nicole Walton
July 28, 2008
JR, As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Nicole Walton
July 28, 2008
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Lauren Stauffer (Mayer)
July 26, 2008
Ajavananda Family - I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Many years have passed since we have seen each other but I have thought of your family often. I have a lot of wonderful memories as a child spent with your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you David, Devon and the Ajavananda family.
Courtney Fennell
July 26, 2008
Dave-
I was stunned with sadness to hear about the sudden passing of Melissa. Im deeply sorry for your loss.Melissa was a great woman,i looked up to her because of her strength & her passion for riding.Her knowledge of horses was inspirational to many including myself.I will never forget her. Please let me know if there is anything i could do for you and your family. You & Devin are in my thoughts && prayers.
Traci Thompson
July 25, 2008
Ajavananda Family- My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead. I would like to think I knew Missy very well during my teen years. She was such an inspiration and mentor to so many including myself. Although I have not seen Missy in several years I think of her and the family often. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you all. Love always.
Karen (Hall)Hobson
July 25, 2008
To all of Melissa's family, you are in my thoughts and prayers. I never knew Melissa, but reading all the beautiful notes, it is obvious she was a very special person. I only know her mom from many years ago. Carol, you were a part of our family when we lived on Rossmore St in Gates...Melissa looks just like you!! Howie told me about your loss, and I am so very sorry..I can't even imagine the pain you are going through. Take care, God be with you. Love, Karen (Hall) Hobson
Larissa Cleveland
July 25, 2008
Dave,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Missy was an amazing woman and equestrian. You and Missy had a passion for the sport and an unquestionable love for your horses was was inspirational to me. Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you - You and your new baby will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Cassie Andrecolich
July 25, 2008
Ajavananda Family
I knew Missy from a long time ago at Seneca park pool. It has been many many years but I remember what a great person she was. My thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless.
Ashley Grove
July 24, 2008
Dave--
I was shocked to hear of Missy's sudden death after reading the paper today. I am so sorry for your loss. Missy was truly an amazing person and a great equestrienne. Her presence will be missed at the barn. You and Devon will be in my thoughts and prayers. Please know that all of us at Way Farm are available for anything that you might need over the coming months.
Vicky Rothwell
July 24, 2008
David, Devon, and Family of Melissa,
I am a better person because I knew Melssa. Teaching with her, talking about our horses, and spending time outside of school together have left me lasting impressions of the beautiful, caring person that she was. My deepest and most heartfelt sympathies to all of you.
Amy Montrois
July 24, 2008
Dave,
The dedication that you and Melissa had to your horses and each other always brought a smile to my face. I was very sorry to hear about your loss. I will be thinking of you and your family.
Kristen French
July 24, 2008
David, Devon, and family-
I am so grateful to have known Melissa. It is evident that she was a remarkable person. She made a great teaching partner. We were able to form a wonderful relationship that I truely cherish. Together we made "Great Beginnings" in our students' lives and without her as my teammate it would not of been half as enjoyable. I know she will continue to be present in our lives providing us guidance, protection, and love. There so many great memories that will fill us up when she is thought of. Please know that you have many of us ready to do whatever it takes, no matter how big or small, to provide you with any support for many days to come.
Stephen & Dianne Couch (Cumbo)
July 24, 2008
My husband I wish to express our sympathy to the Ajavananda and Gersh families. It has been many years since I have seen the Ajavananda family, I think of all of you often. We are so very sorry to hear of your loss. You are all in our hearts and prayes. May God bless all of you.
Barbara (Enos) Rymsha
July 24, 2008
Mr. and Mrs. Ajavananda, Kimmy, Maggie, Marilyn, Carolyn, Becka and Witty,
I just heard of your loss and I am so sorry. It has been many years since growing up with all of you but the great memories are still vivid. What a beautiful woman Missy became. My thoughts are with you - again, I am so sorry for your loss.
Chandra and James Mullineaux
July 24, 2008
Dear Dave, We are so sad and so sorry for your loss. You, Devon and your families are in our thoughts and prayers.
Jennifer Quinn
July 24, 2008
Melissa will be missed greatly. She was a wonderful teacher. My thoughts are with her family and her beautiful baby girl.
Sincerely, Suzie Pflueger
July 24, 2008
David, Devon and families~
Please know I am keeping Melissa and Devon and your families in my thoughts and prayers. I have come to know David and Melissa through Dog agility classes. Devon will have the most special Gaurdian angel watching over her through her life.
LoAnn Desmond
July 24, 2008
Jr and family, we are very sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Memories keep the one you loved close to you in spirit and thoughtand always in your heart,
today and forever.
Annemarie and Doug Boccardo
July 24, 2008
My friendship with Melissa will always be one of the many blessings I received from my time at School 46. She was the happiest when talking about her husband, family, horses and dogs. I know how much she wanted and loved her daughter. Devon will always have an angel looking over her. David, you and your family have our prayers, love, and support.
Bud and Carol Hart
July 24, 2008
Jr. and family. My family and I would like to express our deepest sympathy to you and your family.Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
the Hoovers
July 24, 2008
Dave and family- So sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help.
Craig and Tracey Perkins
July 24, 2008
Melissa was a good friend. I will miss her dearly. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and her beautiful baby girl, Devon.
Marilyn Buckley
July 23, 2008
My sincere condolences to the Ajavananda and Gersh families. My three children attended #46 school and adored Melissa. I admired her for her kind and gentle nature and her passion to help those children struggling at school. My daughter told me stories of how Melissa would bring Monty to school. Melissa would read to her class and had trained Monty to bark on command at various parts in the book. My daughter still smiles when she tells me that story. She had a wonderful impact on my children's education and for that I am forever grateful. Thank you Lord for allowing Melissa to be a part of my children's life. I pray that God has prepared a special place for Melissa in heaven and that he will grant David the strength to understand His will. I also pray that God will protect little Devon Melissa so she can grow up to be as special as her mom! May God bless Melissa's family and give them strength during this sorrowful time.
Patrick and Jayne Ashby
July 23, 2008
We are so shocked and saddened by your loss. Our deepest sympathies to Marilyn and the entire family. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Phil Beenhouwer
July 23, 2008
I am a 1988 graduate of East High School and I knew Melissa through mutual friends. My heart goes out to your family. When I heard the sad news, I was devasted. With two young children of my own, I just can't imagine what it would be like to lose a wife and mother. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Charlotte Brady
July 23, 2008
Mr.& Mrs. A. (and especially David), Know that my prayers and thoughts have been with you all week. I pray that you have strength and courage to get through this difficult time. And blessings to your newest grandchild. Love to you all,
Jack LoCastro
July 23, 2008
Melissa's passing was so sudden and much too soon. It's amazing how fragile and fleeting life can be, a beautiful snowflake on a warm window pane.
Let us guard one another and hold each other dear.
Jeffrey Mitchell
July 23, 2008
We heard of your loss this morning and we are all deeply saddened by the news. Although it has been many years since we lived across the street from the Ajavananda family and gone to school together, we have always considered you our neighbors and friends. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. From Brad (Princeton, NJ), Jeff (Washington, DC), Sherri (Columbus, OH) and Marilynne and Robert (Columbus, OH) Mitchell
Paula Mayer
July 23, 2008
Our family would like to send condolences on the passing of Melissa. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this most difficult time.
The Mayer Family
Ron, Paula, Lauren, Kristin & Alisa
Roshon Bradley
July 23, 2008
On behalf of Mr. Roshon Bradley, principal of School 41 and all the School 41 staff we send our prayers to Mr. Gersh and all of Melissa's family. The City School district is a much smaller family than one would think, and Melissa was truly a part of the family. We have lost a remarkable teacher, friend and colleage. May God give you peace as you try to make sense of it all.
Alex Santos
July 23, 2008
I'm sorry for your lost,My prayer are with you and your family
Johnmark Bevacqua
July 23, 2008
JR and family - We are so saddened by this news. Know that you and all of your family are in our thoughts
mr. and mrs ortiz
July 23, 2008
we are sorry for your loss,and our prayers are with you at this sad time,mrs.a as we called her was truly a speacial person in more ways than one and you will be missed
erica ortiz
July 23, 2008
mrs. ajavananda was my teacher at #46 school, when i attended there,she was the best teacher i had besides my mom. i always think and talk about you, and i always will, i will say many prayers for you
Chris and Shannon
July 23, 2008
Dave
Our deepest sympathy for your loss of Melissa.
Marilyn and Bill VanLare
July 23, 2008
My husband and I knew Missy through a good friend of hers, Dawn Thompson. We were able to chat with Missy many times throughout the years. She was with us in Florida when my dad took sick 11 1/2 years ago and such a support. She was by far a wonderful person. Please know all will be in our prayers.
Patty Kress
July 23, 2008
My husband I wish to express our sympathy. We lived next door to the Ajavanda family for 3 years [in the 70's] and I remember all of the children. We are so very sorry to hear of this tragedy and it is a tragedy when a young person passes away. You are all in our prayers.
Fred Janette
July 23, 2008
Wit and Family,
Our sympathy and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Fred and Lynda Janette
Sue Feenin (Minniti)
July 23, 2008
I want to send my deepest and most heartfelt sympathies to all Melissa's family. We have lost one of the most special people in the world. Having grown up with her and her siblings, I feel like I have lost a member of my family. I loved Melissa with all my heart and will never forget her.
Marguerite Ashby
July 23, 2008
We are so sorry for your loss. Please know you are in our prayers. May you find strength in knowing Melissa will be guiding all of her family and friends from up above. May God grant a special blessing to Devon Melissa and David.
Carol Dwyer
July 23, 2008
My family and I are so saddened to hear about Missy. Although her and I were no longer as close she was my best friend growing up and always held a special place in my heart. I have very fond memories of our adventures together. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers especially her new baby girl.
Lora Hamlin
July 23, 2008
I would like to express my deepest sympathy to the family. My thoughts and prayers are with you with you all. God Bless.
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