Melissa Danielle Walker

Melissa Danielle Kelso-Walker died Wednesday, June 10 at St. John Hospital and Medical center with family at her side. Melissa was the beloved eldest daughter of Brent Kelso and step mother Michelle DeLand, mother of her 7 year old son, Taylor, sister to Terrena Miller (Tim), Justine Kelso (Chris Ford), Jennifer Kelso, Zachary Kelso and Mallory Karaska (Ryan Brooks) and her mother, Brenda Karaska. She is also survived by her uncle Brad Kelso, cousins Shannon Dahn (Paul), Matthew Kelso, her former husband Tom Walker. Melissa was born on March 23, 1981. From the time she was a youngster, she had the "gift of gab" and was a natural born sales person. For the last 10 years, her career was spent in the mortgage and banking field, most recently as a loan officer for Michigan First Credit Union. She loved her job because she was able to help people secure loans for needed things such as homes and cars. Melissa was an exceptionally active, busy working mom, extremely devoted to her son, family members and friends. She never met a stranger and was always looking for ways to help people. Melissa's sense of adventure served her well, as she continually sought out new things whether it was a Saturday afternoon of zip lining, tango lessons or performing improv comedy, to introducing her son to the joys and wonder of places like The Henry Ford or the Detroit Zoo to air shows, fishing, picnics and water balloon flights. Melissa was everybody's friend, confidant and mentor. She sustained friendships over many years and across the country, just by keeping in touch with a phone call, email or text. She was the first person to lend a helping hand and most importantly, never one to judge. She had the wonderful gift of helping to build up people's confidence when they were down and nudging them to follow their dreams. Melissa was enthusiastic about life and everything it had to offer. Whatever activity she participated in, or event she attended she always said "It was the best day EVER!" She always had a great story to share, or a funny anecdote to act out. A memorial service to celebrate Melissa's life will be held on Thursday, June 18 at 1 pm at Grosse Pointe Memorial Church, 16 Lakeshore Road, Grosse Pointe Farms. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a fund established for Melissa's son Taylor : here.