Melanie Liang-Anderson

Melanie Liang-Anderson Melanie or Lani, as she was called by her family, ended her journey peacefully on November 4, 20ll, in Berkeley. She was born in Sacramento on September 3, 1946. She is survived by her son Max, daughter-in-law DeShauna, granddaughter Deja, stepson Odin (Evie), granddaughter Ruby, sister Paulette (Doug), brothers Michael, Walter, Wilkie (Nancy), niece Elena (Jason), nephews Eric (Maria), Matthew, Adam, grandnieces and nephew, ex-husband Gary Anderson, and numerous other relatives. Cancer lived with her for 3 years. She endured chemo and radiation with grace and stoicism, never letting cancer define or dominate her spirit. She will be remembered for her courage in accepting her diagnosis realistically. In a culture where death is an awkward subject, she showed how to make it an integrated part of life itself. In between medical procedures, she travelled to China, Hawaii, went with friends to the east coast and enjoyed her family and friends. She especially loved spending time with her granddaughter. Melanie was a gifted artist and studied art at Sacramento City College, Chouinard Art Institute in Los Angeles, graduated from UC Berkeley, and did graduate work at the SF Art Institute. She always gave freely of her artistic talents. Her aesthetic was reflected in her house which was filled with color, art and a marvelous collection of whimsical toys. Melanie worked at the Federal Reserve Bank for 42 years, mentoring colleagues throughout her tenure there. When in 2008 the FRB sponsored an art exchange with the Bank of China, her work was selected and exhibited in BOC offices in Beijing and Shanghai. She cherished ties with her many relatives and was a devoted friend. She was the keeper of Chinese traditions, organizing the annual ching ming and celebrated the new year by creating a painting of the animal of the year. She loved to give parties-- her family, friends and colleagues were happy recipients of her extraordinary baking skills. Her cookies and cakes were legendary. She never forgot a birthday. We miss her warmth and keen wit. With heartfelt thanks for their compassionate care, the family asks that donations be made to Kaiser Hospice, 3701 Broadway, Suite 300, Oakland, CA 94611. A celebration of her life will be held Sat., November 26, 2011 at 2 p.m., Chapel of the Chimes, 4499 Piedmont Ave, Oakland, CA.