Melinda White Jones

died on June 12, 2012, in Eureka, CA after suffering a massive stroke. She was born on October 14, 1961 in Hayward, CA, the fifth child of Arvin and Betty White. When her father retired from the Coast Guard, the family settled in San Diego and Melinda graduated from University of San Diego High School. She went on to graduate from Humboldt State with plans to go on for a Masters degree in creative writing, but at age 23 she had a serious stroke. After several months of rehab she decided to make Eureka her home. She returned and married Dennis Baertschi (1987-1992). Melinda worked as an an activity director at Adult Day Health Services in Eureka, a job she loved. She met and married a co-worker, David Jones, in 1999. In 2006 Melinda had another stroke and was diagnosed with Moyamoya disease, a rare progressive disorder of the blood vessels supplying the brain. No longer able to work, she tenaciously continued to live life to the fullest, agate hunting, walking amongst the redwoods, reading, writing and challenging herself daily. Her husband David passed away July, 2011. She is survived by her mother; sisters, Virginia White, Anne Henning (Bret), Susan Dodgen (Doug); brothers Patrick (Debbie), John (Tracey), Matt (Laura), and Gary. She had three stepchildren, Joe, Althea and Lexie Jones; 14 nieces and nephews; several uncles and aunts, and dozens of cousins. She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her. A Memorial and pot luck will be held on Friday, August 17th at 6 p.m. at Adult Day Health Care Services, 1901 California St., Eureka, CA. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Making Headway, 305 O St., Eureka, CA Center for Brain Injury Recovery. Please sign the guest book at www.Times-Standard.com, click obits.