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Melissa Hartung Obituary

Melissa Jean (Porcello) Hartung, 41, of Mystic, wife of William J. Hartung III, passed away after a courageous 20-month battle with cancer on Aug. 1, 2010, at home.

Born in Springfield, she was the daughter of Salvatore and Christine (Meade) Porcello of Enfield. Melissa grew up in Enfield and attended local schools. Upon graduating from high school, Melissa joined the United States Navy, enlisting for eight years. During her enlistment, she was stationed in Europe. After her honorable discharge, she remained overseas for several more years, living and traveling throughout various countries in Europe. Melissa lived in Mystic for the past nine years, where she was a training specialist with Mohegan Sun Casino. She loved the outdoors and enjoyed kayaking, bike riding, and hiking.

Besides her parents and husband, she leaves her son, Nicoli Macaluso of Mystic; her stepson, William J. Hartung IV of Ledyard; a sister, Sherry Kmiecik, and her husband, Theodore, of Enfield; brother, Leo Porcello, and his wife, Sarah, of Wyo.; a granddaughter, Bella Sue Hartung of Ledyard; numerous nieces and nephews; her mother-in-law, Vera Wolf, and her husband, Stanley, of Louisville, Ky.; and a brother-in-law, Christopher Hartung, and his wife, Melissa, of Louisville, Ky.

A funeral mass will be celebrated Thursday, Aug. 5, at 11 a.m. at St. Adalbert Church, 90 Alden Ave., Enfield. Military honors will be held immediately following the mass. Burial will be private.

There are no calling hours.

The Mystic Funeral Home has charge of arrangements.

The family invites you to visit

www.mysticfuneralhome.com

to share an online message of condolence.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Journal Inquirer from Aug. 4 to Aug. 8, 2010.

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Chris Johnson

July 30, 2021

A beautiful soul that left the world a much darker place since her passing. I will always remember our lunches at work. Your laugh was a force of nature.

Cousin Francis

July 29, 2021

Beloved Melissa, I miss you very much, yet the indelible memories of oh so amazing "you" reside inside my heart and mind for life; from babysitting you and you siblings, teaching you Spanish (as I learned it myself!), our treks along the shores of the CT River to the decades one or both of us was away to finally reconnecting decades later as if not a day had passed.

You were one of the rare great ones- those whom we ALWAYS seem to lose FAR TOO soon. I was honored to be a part of your final year, assisting you as I could, loving you MOST OF ALL, and awed by your most extraordinary son, Nicolai (of whom I still think and send love and to whom I still send blessings), along with your loving husband!

Finally, I am sure of the reality of endless love, for not yesterday I was talking about you, so proudly, with a cousin from my father's side, having no idea the anniversary of your passing was so near; made known to me via an email here! Forever a wonder, SO MANY love you still & I am graced for having been able to do so throughout your entire life!

layen holt

January 23, 2017

Bella missis you

BELLA HARTUNG

February 16, 2015

DEAR GRAME MISSIE I MISS YOOU SOO MUCH INCASE YOU DIDDNET SEE I LIVE IN YOUR HOUSE NOW IF YOU WERE HEAR RIGHT NOW I WOULD SEND EVRY SECND OF THE DAY WITH YOU I REALLY LOVE YOU I KNOW I OLEY GOT 4 YEARS WITH YOU ITS NOT YOUR FULT AND IF YOU WERE HEAR I WOULD HUG YOU KISS YOU AND IN CASE YOU DIDNT SEEWE HAVE A PUUUPY HER NAME IS LOLA YOURS ALLWAYS BELLA ;[

A cousin,who knows of what he speaks

September 1, 2011

Happy Birthday today to Missy's most precious and astonishing accomplishment and gift to our world; her handsome, highly intelligent- emotionally and intellectually, world savvy, kind and brimming with spirit/openness son, Nicoli.

Nicoli, I feel your Mom's powerful love and everlasting care enveloping you so often, even as you have been dealt with such a difficult journey with her unimaginable passing.

If you don't know it already, in time, I am telling you that you will understand that she IS, HAS BEEN, and always WILL be with you. This has or will come to you as a knowledge that only those who have gone through what you and Trey have can understand.

I hope that that day comes soon, and you settle into that knowledge and her everlasting embrace. Your beautiful Mom left so much love, so many gifts, and so much amazement on this earth that her presence exists permanently and everywhere, but no more strongly than in you; her greatest gift and treasure.

God Bless You and Happy Birthday!!!!!!!

Wes Crouch

August 31, 2011

So sorry to hear about Missy. She was a great persons and a powerful soul! Her spirit will always be!

Wesley Crouch

Bob Gray

August 27, 2010

Missy was a very special, dear friend throughout my childhood. She will forever be missed, but never be forgotten.
My prayers are with her entire family.

Auntie Gloria, Lynda Carol, and Susan

August 7, 2010

We are so sad to hear about Missy. It's beautiful to see her photo here--so many people talked about her smile, understandably-- and to read all the ways she has touched the people in her life, and of her courage. She will live on in the hearts of all of us. Sending our love to you all in this very sad time.

MJ Allaire

August 6, 2010

I worked at Mohegan Sun for two years and remember Melissa for her beautiful hair, her brilliant smile, and her warm personality. My most sincere condolences go out to those who knew, loved and will miss her.

August 6, 2010

Dear Chris,

Liz (Arico) Remington stopped me at work today to tell me the loss of our Missy. Memories came flooding back to me. Our Girl Scout trip to Amish country, Hershey Park, and roller skating in Pennsylvania summer 1980. I remeber having you watch the girls canoning on the pond when Missy tells me you can't swim. We almost got kicked out a resturant (and Girl Scouts) for laughing so hard at the "Wide Mouth Frog" joke. The following spring we took the girls up to the Cape camping. I still can't beleive how much time they took putting on make up and doing the their hair when camping. I think despite me getting the ferry departure times and arrivals at Martha's Vineyard and getting lost in Providence late at night we all had a good time. I hope sharing these memories with you brings a smile to your face as it did mine.

Debra J Niziolek
Junior Girl Scout Leader
1980-1982

(Coach) Glen Graham

August 6, 2010

Nicoli & Family,
My condolences on your loss. My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family.

Barbara O'Neill, RN

August 6, 2010

My sincere condolences to all Melissa's family and friends.

Peggy (Ferguson) Boyd

August 5, 2010

Missy, as I read these messages, so many include your brillant beautiful smile. From Kindergarten to High School graduation you blessed my life with that smile. You are a beautiful person who will be missed. God Bless.

Elizabeth (Arico) Remington

August 5, 2010

Mr. & Mrs. Porcello, Sherry and Leo,

Missy was a good friend of mine when we were young. All the memories I have of Missy really make me smile. My condolences to you all. Rest in peace Missy.

Cheryl Camacho

August 5, 2010

My heart is filled with sadness with the news of Melissa's passing. My condolences to her family. I had the pleasure of seeing Melissa's beautiful smile light up every room she entered at Mohegan Sun. She had such a kind spirited soul! She will truly be missed.

Stephen Holmberg

August 5, 2010

Mellisa's Family,
My deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences to you all. I got to know Missy while working at the Sun. In April I was diagnosed with cancer on my vocal chord and Missy was right there first thing helping me and giving me support. I would visit her in her office early in the morning and we would check and see how each other was fairing. She couldn't emphasize enough that it was alright to get angry, get depressed, get frustrated and to cry. We shared tears and hugs but mostly we shared smiles and laughs. She was beyond a doubt better than any of the meds I was taking. In our lives we cross paths with some precious and beautiful people and Missy is right at the top of my list. I think of her every day and she will forever be in my heart. I will miss her so very, very much. Again, my sympathy to Missy's family.
Rest in peace Missy and keep smiling.
As ever, Steve Holmberg

Jen Bishop

August 5, 2010

Heaven just acquired the most gorgeous angel it will ever see. Her smile will light up the sky brighter than the sun. Trey & nicoli, you have the most beautiful guardian angel now watching over you. May you now rest in peace miss! You will never be forgotten!

June Shashok

August 5, 2010

I feel blessed by having had Missy in my life. She, Gee and I were the sisters of courage but Missy was our inspiration. Whenever I start to feel down, I think of Missy and I fight on. She will always be in our hearts. My condolences to her family. Hold on to your wonderful memories and know she is at peace,

cousin

August 5, 2010

missy is, as has been noted again and again, a hero, really; one to emulate and one who will always inspire me to be a better VERSION of me. her greatest treasure; her son nicoli, is a permanent example of the expression of love, grace, maturity, kindness, missy's good looks :-), all that can be developed through the life, lived example and guidance of one extraordinary human being.

for reasons that i have never understood, it always seems to be the BEST among us who leave us too, too soon. Missy is and was the BEST. that said, Missy's radiance, intelligence, kindness, spirit of fun and happiness will be a well that stays full for others to draw from for decades to come. i love you, my dear, dear one.

Linda Fitz

August 5, 2010

Missy, hugh smile that's lights up any room or space everywhere she goes. Great attitude and a joy to be around. Our beautiful angel is looking down on all of us. Miss you. My condolences to her family.

Mary Signorino

August 5, 2010

I took a special interest in Missy and her health problem. What I watched her go through was very near and dear to my heart. She fought back with grace and dignity. I have never experienced anyone going through what she went through with her never ending smile and positive attitude. Now she's at peace and where it hurts no more. Missy was a beautiful woman and I will never forget her. To her family, my deepest condolences go out to you at this very difficult time. Know that death leaves a heartache no one can heal,but, love leaves a memory that no one can steal. Rest in peace, Missy

lisa gill

August 5, 2010

Missy and I had many good times growing up. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family..

Barbara

August 5, 2010

Missy, beautiful blond haired angel smiling on us all. You have such a strong spirit which continues to shine and surround your loved ones always. At last free from pain, and at peace. My condolences to Missy's family.

Cathy L

August 5, 2010

•May you take comfort in knowing an angel is watching over you. Missy will be greatly missed. Her smiling face always brightened everyone day. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family

Scott Aye

August 5, 2010

My prayers and condolences to Missy's Family.

Amie

August 4, 2010

My thoughts & prayers are with Missy's friends and family. I knew Missy from the Sun and loved training with her. Everytime I saw her she was smiling and in turn brought a smile to my face. I will always admire Missy's positive attitude and joy. God bless you and your loved ones...

Rich

August 4, 2010

When I first started at Mohegan Sun,Missy was on of the employees that helped train me, she was very good at her job and you could really tell she cared about people. My thoughts and prayers to the family.

Kimber Mangiafico Marett

August 4, 2010

I went to high school with Missy & I used to have this picture of her in her grad cap & gown, although I no longer have the picture the image of her beautiful heart-warming smile is forever etched upon my mind... we didn't keep in touch after high school but when I heard of her passing I felt a great loss. My heart, thoughts & comforting prayers go out to her family!

Kathleen Lynch

August 4, 2010

My Deepest Deepest Condolences on the loss of Missy!

Joyce Gardner

August 4, 2010

Despite your illness, you alway had a smile on your face. You were a joy to meet and I hate to say good by. May you rest in peace while the Lord watch over your family.

Carol Lavoie

August 4, 2010

I am one of many who's life has been touched by Melissa. I will never forget her smile and courage. She has touched my heart and life forever - I will miss her greatly,
Carol Lavoie
Mohegan Sun

Trish

August 4, 2010

Missy inspired us all with her strength and brightened our days with her smile. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and all those who hold her spirit in their hearts.

Uncle Patrick Meade

August 4, 2010

Missy, your star shone bright in our lives. You touched everyone you met with your beautiful smile and loving heart. I will always hold dear the special memories and family times we shared. You are an insperation to our family and your freinds . Your spirit will not be forgotten even though you will be missed dearly. With all my love to you rest peacfully in our Lord's arms.

August 4, 2010

Missy was wonderfully inspiring and we will miss the courage and faith that she imparted each day. Godspeed, Missy!
Pat

Dianna Dawson

August 4, 2010

I had the pleasure of meeting Missy in Spain and working with her there. The girl could literally light up a room when she walked in. Her smile is one I never forgot after moving back stateside and will continue to remember always. She was a great Mother who thought Nikoli hung the moon and I am so glad that she found such happiness with Tray. She deserved all the happiness in the world.
Missy's family should be so proud of the person she was and all the wonderful memories everyone has of her.

Laurie Keenan

August 4, 2010

Melissa was a spot of sunshine and a true inspiration to all of us at Mohegan Sun. Her courage and bravery during her battle with cancer was remarkable. She will be missed terribly. Rest in peace Missy.

Laurie K. (East Hampton, CT)

Paula Locke

August 4, 2010

Missy, you will be greatly missed by all of us who met you and you will always be in our hearts and prayers. This little town in Spain will never be the same without your visits.

Sage Barber

August 4, 2010

Melissa had a smile that lit up your day! No matter how sick she got her smile was so bright. She was a remarkable woman and it was an honor to have had the opportunity to know and work with someone as truly incredible as she was. The halls of Mohegan Sun will never be the same! My thoughts and prayers go out to her entire family in their time of sorrow. We will miss you Missy, may you rest in peace.

Nancy and Larry

August 4, 2010

Missy- filled our heart with laughter and joy, she was always someone you could talk with.She will be sadly missed at Mohegan sun. She will always be in our memory with her beautiful smile. Our prayers and thoughts are with you . hold on to the memories forever in your heart.

Jeff

August 4, 2010

Missy could always make you smile with just a look.. Her excitment and energy about everything life had to offer was something that I have not seen in another person. I know in this time it is difficult to think, but Missy will live through so many people she touched for a very long time.. My thoughts and prayers are with her family.. I know she is looking down with a full head of beautiful blonde hair laughing and smiling..

Heather Clements

August 4, 2010

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Chris

August 4, 2010

Missy - word cannot express the sorrow that all that know you are feeling right now. It is with a sad heart that I send my condolences and love to Trey, Nicoli and family. Missy is loved, respected and will always be missed.

Jon

August 4, 2010

Melissa's charm, wit and smile will be greatly missed at Mohegan Sun. My thoughts and prayers to the family.

Kathleen Pugliese

August 4, 2010

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

Lisa & Walter Banas

August 4, 2010

The loss of someone is difficult to bear. Please accept our deepest sympathies. Missy, you have touched all our lives and are sadly missed.

Marshall & Deb Lewis

August 4, 2010

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Ann Marie Clang

August 4, 2010

Missy - you will be greatly missed by all of us at Mohegan Sun, but never forgotten. You always lit up warehouse 2 when you were around. You touched so many lives with that bright smile of yours.
To Missy's Family - My thoughts and prayers go out to you at this time of grief. I am very sorry for your loss.

Denis Anderson

August 4, 2010

You are sadly missed Missy. Tray and Nikoli my thoughts will always be with you.

Joan Festa

August 4, 2010

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Jim

August 4, 2010

Melissa
My condolences to the family of Missy. As a employee of Mohegan Sun this was Missy second home. Missy was the most courageous person that I ever had the honor to work with. I miss your smile even on the days that you did not feel well. You will never be forgotten. Your freind Jim.

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