Melissa Ann Protz
1981 - 2014
Melissa Ann Protz
1981 - 2014
Obituary
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Melissa Protz Obituary
Melissa is the beloved daughter of John & Joyce (Schneider) Protz of Port Charlotte, FL. Born May 7, 1981, in Manitowoc Wisconsin, she attended Roncalli High School graduating in 1999. Melissa attended the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse for two years where she was a member of the tennis team. In order to pursue her passion for Marine Biology, she transferred to James Cook University in Townsville, Queensland, Australia where she graduated with honors in 2003. She then moved and began her career at the Dolphin Research Center, studying dolphin behavior, in Melbourne, Australia. To be closer to family, Melissa moved to Denver, CO enrolling in veterinary school at Bel-Ray Institute. During her studies, Melissa interned with the Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago, IL and graduated with honors as a Certified Veterinary Technician in 2005. In 2009, Melissa moved to Portland, OR and worked as an educational youth coordinator at the Portland Zoo, where she fell in love with the Pacific Northwest. In 2011, Melissa moved to Seattle, WA to be close to family and pursue a degree in teaching. She enrolled at Seattle University and graduated with a master's degree, highest honors in 2012. She accepted a position as a sixth and seventh grade biology teacher at Assumption-St. Bridget School in Seattle. Her joy for teaching showed and was "always about the kids." Whether she was taking sea water from the ocean or keeping tomorrow's experiment in the staff refrigerator, her main goal was bringing science to her students. Melissa's concern for the environment, extended far beyond the classroom. Her sense of adventure took her around the world. Her passion for the outdoors showed in all that she did – from hiking, camping, downhill skiing, scuba diving, biking, boating, backpacking, sailing, to countless road-trips. Her dog, Bodie, accompanied her on many of her travels – they were the perfect pair.Melissa was a selflessly engaged and influential daughter, sister, cousin, godmother, and friend. She gave thoughtful gifts and knew those in her life well. Even more so, her relationship with others was the greatest gift anyone could give, and she did it best. She saw the best in people, and because of this, was able to have deep and giving relationships with those in her life. Her love for her nieces and nephew and the impact in their daily lives was full of grace, sacredness, and has forever drawn them closer to God in an immense way.
Survivors include: her parents: John and Joyce; brother and sister-in-law: Matthew and Mary Elizabeth (Rudolph) Protz; beloved companion: Bodie, grandmother: Jane Protz; aunts and uncles: William and Caroline Protz Jr.; Janet Protz; Nancy (Protz) and Paul Pillat; John and Patricia Schneider; Gloria Schneider; James and Sharon Schneider Sr.; Benedict and Nancy Schneider Sr.; Raymond and Joan Schneider II; Paul and Marlene Schneider; Joseph Schneider Sr.; Daniel and Lisa Schneider; numerous cousins, other relatives and friends. She is preceded in death by grandfathers: William Protz Sr.; Raymond Schneider Sr.; and grandmother: Mildred (Ressler) Schneider.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to: The Melissa Protz Scholarship Fund, Assumption Saint Bridget School, 6220 32nd Avenue Northeast, Seattle, WA 98115.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM on Thursday, July 24, 2014 at St. Francis of Assisi on Waldo, 1121 North 14th Street, Manitowoc. Officiating at the Mass of Christian Burial will be the Rev. Dave Pleier. Cremation will take place following the services at All-Care Cremation Center, Manitowoc.
The family will greet relatives and friends from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM on Wednesday, July 23, 2014 at The Pfeffer Funeral Home, 928 S. 14th Street, Manitowoc. The visitation will continue on Thursday morning, July 24, 2014 at St. Francis of Assisi on Waldo, 1121 North 14th Street, Manitowoc, from 9:00 AM until 10:15 AM.
A memorial Mass for Melissa will be held at 10:00 AM at Saint Joseph Catholic Church, 732 18th Avenue East, Seattle, WA. on Monday, July 28, 2014.
With love, the family sends a special thank you to Melissa's surrogate family, James II & Shannon Schneider, their children Lucia, Clara, god-daughter Marianna & James III of Seattle. Their love and care for Melissa was a true blessing.
Hoffner Fisher & Harvey
Bob Nelson
July 14, 2020
Its hard to believe that it's 6 years since that fateful report of Melissa's passing. She was the most kind and gentle person I ever met. Like all big events (9-11, Kennedy assassination, etc.) I will always remember exactly where I was and what I was doing when I heard. Melissa was such a big part of NFTC as a camper and counselor that it was like a punch in the stomach when I heard. I include her in my daily prayers, asking God to hold her in his loving arms for ever.
Missy Becker
July 14, 2020
Hugs and loving thoughts
Jim Ruffolo
July 14, 2019
Dear John, Joyce, Matt and Mary-Beth, we pray for peace and joy as we all remember Melissa. Melissa was such a great role model that we think of her often when we talk about sailing, teaching, great young role models and just having fun. We will always remember Melissa and the entire Protz family! Jim and Lisa Ruffolo & Family
Darren
October 22, 2014
Ms. Protz was a great inspiration to my learning; she was the best biology teacher I've ever had! It really showed that she had a passion for what she did, and that it made her happy. For one so dedicated to our learning, we will always remember and keep Ms. Protz and her family in our hearts and prayers!
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Blessings to you!
Mary Shelley
October 11, 2014
Dearest Joyce and John,
My heart aches for you. My eyes well with tears looking at the picture of your beautiful daughter that I never got to meet and see the pureness in her eyes knowing she had to be an incredible women who greatly influenced the children she taught which has changed their lives forever.
You're ALL so deeply in my thoughts and prayers.
With Love,
Mary Shelley
Nicole
September 28, 2014
I got the pleasure of knowing Melissa when she lived in Colorado. She was an amazing & inspiring person. I will always remember her. My heart goes out to her family.
Brendan Cotter
August 23, 2014
I give All Thanks to God. I love Melissa. I love Squirt. She is the best. I love her.
August 1, 2014
There are only a few people who are treasured by those whose lives they touched! Melissa was one of those very few.
July 30, 2014
WOW WORDS CANNOT EXPRESS THE PAIN YOU GUYS ARE GOING THROUGH. I HONESTLY HOPE THAT YOU SHARE THE SAME HOPE AS JESUS EXPRESSED IN JOHN 5:28.
July 29, 2014
This is sad. I was a school administrator. Losing a gifted teacher is the worst lossd. I deeply feel for her Mom & Dad. Not fun! Thank you for what you have given us!
July 29, 2014
Dear Protz Family,
You have been in our thoughts and prayers. The tributes to Melissa are beautiful. We hope all the wonderful memories will help get you through the days ahead.
Ken and Marianne Deja
Teresa Fesalbon
July 28, 2014
Ms. Protz was my favorite teacher from ASB. Her class was my first really challenging class. I owe my acedemic excellence to her pushing me and because she would spend early mornings and time after school working with me on science topics that I hadn't completely grasped yet. I have never met another teacher so dedicated to her students with a deep passion for what she taught. Ms. Protz wasn't just my teacher, she was also one of my best friends.
Shelly& Paul Leonhard
July 28, 2014
Our deepest sympathies for you loss. We will you keep you in our prayers.
Elaine Pappas
July 28, 2014
Dear John, Joyce, Matt, and Mary Beth,
We are thinking about you everyday. We pray that you can find the strength to cope with this enormous loss. Melissa was a special person, a shining star that is now shining down from heaven.
Love, Elaine and Chris
Kelly Manis
July 27, 2014
Joyce John and Matt I can't even imagine the loss of Melissa after the tragedy of almost losing Matt to losing your daughter Melissa I can't imagine the sorrow that you all feel what a joy to have someone so vibrant in your life and that so many people loved
Cherish the deepest memories of her career in tennis her wonderful experience in Australia her love for children that inspired many and planted a seed in their lives that will Grow forever thanks to your daughter many students have found a love for science and will continue to love science or remember a wonderful teacher named Melissa. Joyce as you know my father loved you very dearly and I know he's in heaven and he will watch over your daughter until you can see her again May God be with you and your family and find comfort and peace with him
July 27, 2014
Dear John & Joyce...Frank & I send our very heartfelt sympathy to you both and your families during this very sad time. We know how special Melissa was to you and to many, many others and how much she will be missed. Our hearts and prayers go out to you. With love & hugs, Frank & Linda Rorvick, River Falls, WI
Young Family
July 26, 2014
Dear Protz Family,
Our deepest condolences for the loss of such a beautiful life. Melissa was a student teacher in my son's sophomore Biology class at Bishop Blanchet HS. She made such a positive impact on the students, my son included, in such a short time, that you knew she had found her calling. May your wonderful memories bring you comfort and keep her spirit alive in your hearts.
Jessica (Gosz) Nave
July 26, 2014
Protz Family,
You are in my thoughts and prayers. Melissa lead an incredible life! Her students were lucky to have her.
Shelly and Dallas Shepard
July 25, 2014
John, Joyce and Matt,
My heart goes out to you and your family and please know you are in our prayers. Wish we could be with you during this time. God Bless
Katherine (Cashman) Keech
July 25, 2014
Protz family--there are no words adequate to comfort you, but I will keep you all in my prayers! Melissa was a beautiful little girl who grew up to be an amazing and even more beautiful young lady! She clearly touched so many lives! I am so incredibly sorry for your loss.
Nancy Kluss
July 25, 2014
Deepest sympathy to Melissa's family. I worked with Melissa at the Oregon Zoo, she was always a vibrant presence.
Frank Teller
July 24, 2014
I am so sorry for your loss. I did not get the opportunity to meet Melissa she sounds like she was a wonderful daughter. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Maria Greenberg
July 24, 2014
Dear Joyce, John, Matt and Mary Beth,
I'm praying for God to give you the strength you need to endure this horrible tragedy. I know that Melissa was everything to you…God must have a very special plan for your girl. Cling to the hope and the knowledge that you will see her again one day.
Adam Simons
July 24, 2014
Joyce, John, Matt and Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you, I am so very sorry. Melissa touched so many and no doubt made the world a better place for us all.
With deepest sympathy,
July 24, 2014
Melissa was a fabulous teacher who inspired so many students at Assumption St. Bridget School. In just two short years, her impact was beyond amazing. Many middle school students aspire to be scientists today because of her, my son included. You should know what a blessing she was to our community and the magnitude of her impact. We share in your sadness for the loss of Melissa and thank you for sharing your wonderful daughter with the ASB community. You are in our thoughts and prayers. The Roske Family
Monica DeMeulemeester
July 23, 2014
We are sending prayers from Seattle to all of Melissa's close family and friends. Melissa taught 2 of my children, Morgan and Max. For my daughter, Morgan, the science concepts came easily but the confidence to do things outside of her comfort zone, like dissections or public speaking, not so much. Melissa helped her through and inspired her to test her limits (it may have helped that Morgan is a diehard NFL fan and loved Ms's Protz extra credit NFL questions!) For Max, studying was more difficult but I don't think I ever saw a more proud smile at the end of the year when he earned his B+...he knew that it had required hard work and had not come easily. For both - very different types of students, Melissa's death has been difficult. We are blessed to have her presence in their lives.
Jim and Kim Wallner
July 23, 2014
Dear Joyce, John and Family,
Jim and I are so sorry to hear about the tragic loss of your lovely daughter. Our hearts ache with sorrow. May God's love guide you during this very sad time.
July 23, 2014
We are so very sorry for your loss. Melissa taught my son Kyle last year. He had just transferred schools and he struggled in her class! She went out of her way to talk to him and me so he wouldn't fall behind. He wanted to work hard for her and she was a really tough teacher. He ended up with an A in her class and was so proud of it! Melissa was just one of those really special teachers that relates to kids and so inspires them to learn. She even dropped a personal note in his locker complimenting him on his performance in the school play. She loved his singing and we now know how much she liked to sing! Kyle is heartbroken as are all the students at ASB. Our comfort lies in knowing she is with God in heaven. You are all in our prayers.
Alison, Doug, and Kyle Scott
Cathy, Tad and Hans White
July 23, 2014
Joyce and John - Our sympathy and sorrow to you and your family. What a beautiful person with such passion for life, love of animals and children. No mother or father should ever experience such a lost - we are truly sorry for your loss. Joyce, we wish we could have know her - what a wonderful person. Again we are sorry for your loss. God Bless Melissa and your family~
July 23, 2014
John, Joyce, and Matt,
Words cannot convey the sorrow Pat and I have in our hearts for you. There are people in everyone's life that they will never forget. Melissa was one of those. From the tennis lessons, to her attending NFTC, to being one of the most liked counselors at NFTC, to watching her play mixed doubles with Trent she was always the best she could be. Never slacked at tennis camp and always was on top of everything. You have been in our prayers since we learned of your loss and will be forever. I know the Lord will keep her in his loving hands.
Bob & Pat Nelson
Randy and Lesley Ferguson Ferguson
July 23, 2014
Dear John, Joyce and Protz Family,
We had the pleasure of meeting and getting to know Melissa at the Lakeside Foods annual meeting (2013). She was lovely, sweet and a very intelligent young lady, devoted to learning about God's creation and sharing that knowledge and her joy with others. Please accept our deepest sympathy.
We pray for your peace knowing that Melissa is in God's embrace.
Lovingly in our Lord,
Randy and Lesley Ferguson
July 23, 2014
Melissa was my twelve year old sons science teacher and he adored her! She was amazing as an educator and a role model to the kids! She may be gone but will never be forgotten by the ASB community! Thank you to the Protz family for sharing your beautiful daughter with us!
Bob and Carol Netzler
July 22, 2014
John, Joyce, and Matt, Our deepest sympathy to your family. We wish you God's comfort and peace. As a sixth grader, Melissa had such enthusiasm for learning. Thoughts and prayers. Bob and Carol
July 22, 2014
Dear Joyce, John, Matt, and Mary Beth ~
My heart broke with the news of Melissa's accident and your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers with love,
Pam Banker, Sister Bay, WI
DR. Surinder, Sheila & Rakhi Rajpal
July 22, 2014
We are deeply saddened to hear of your loss. Please accept our heartfelt condolences. May God Bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Dan and LaVonne Cavanaugh
July 22, 2014
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Melissa sounds like she was a beautiful person with a big heart. Our prayers are with your entire family.
Dan and LaVonne Cavanaugh
Anna-Lisa Rydberg
July 22, 2014
Joyce, to you and your family:
I am so sorry to hear about this. Many prayers for peace and love for you at this time.
--Anna-Lisa
July 22, 2014
John and Joyce, We are keeping you in our hearts and prayers...Wendy & Bob
Cindy Haefke
July 22, 2014
John & Joyce - My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. What an amazing person she was.
Tom and Melissa Hagarman
July 22, 2014
Joyce, John, Matt and family: We are so deeply saddened by your loss. Melissa not only immersed herself fully in life, but touched many other lives and hearts along the way. Such a beautiful soul. We send wishes for comfort and peace in this most difficult time. With love,
Sheri Kuiper
July 22, 2014
Dear Joyce & Joyce & Mat:
Where are so sad to hear of the terrible loss of Melissa. We are thinking & praying for you during this very difficult time. Love, Sheri & Jerry Kuiper
John Foster
July 22, 2014
John, Joyce and Family-
The news of Melissa's accident has left all who have known her with such sadness. Know that you have many friends to support you. My prayers and thoughts are with all of you,
John
July 22, 2014
Dearest John, Joyce, Matt and Mary Beth and to all of Melissa's extended family and friends~
Our hearts are so sad over this devastating loss. What a special gift it will always be that I got see Melissa again last summer after many years. Our thoughts and continued prayers are with you now and through all the days ahead. I know one Baby Angel who I am certain has been holding Melissa's hand since she arrived in Heaven along with many more! God Bless you all.
Tony and Kathy (Hoffman) Zucchi, Manitowoc
Jane Twohig
July 22, 2014
Dear Joyce, John, and Matthew,
Words cannot express how sorry I was to hear about this. Melissa was a special girl who will be missed greatly. Jane Coffin Twohig
July 22, 2014
Dear Joyce, John, Matt, and Mary Beth,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. There are no words to express our feelings, but please know that we care and we are praying for you. Love, Bob and Mary Jane
Georgeann and Phil Knier
July 22, 2014
To Melissa's family;
I am sincerely sad for your loss of Melissa. No parent should ever experience the loss of a child. I know she will be with you always, in the breeze, the lake, the ocean, and the rain. Every marine creature will sing her praise. I hope her memories stay sharp and clear for your lifetime until you can be with again. She was truly loved and cherished. Our thoughts and tears are with you.
Jim & Lisa Ruffolo & Family
July 22, 2014
Dear Joyce, John, Matt and Mary Elizabeth, please accept our family's deepest regrets for the tragic and sudden loss of Melissa. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this trying time. Melissa will be remembered by all who knew her and those whose lives she has touched and helped. God Bless.
Donna McLaughlin
July 21, 2014
John and Joyce, no words can say how sad we were to hear of Melissa's accident. Please know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers. Melissa was a special person!!
Donna and Bob McLaughlin
Mary Bratz
July 21, 2014
Joyce,John & family so sorry for your loss our thoughts & prayers are with you & your family at this difficult time.Lincoln High School,Class of 1965.Mary Ellen Brat
Lauren Volcheff
July 21, 2014
Melissa had such a light in her and while I haven't spent much time with her recently, I know she made this world a better place and people's lives better.
The Browns
July 21, 2014
Dear Protz family,
My husband and I met Melissa through her joining the adult volunteers at St. Joe's parish youth group called Pathfinders. Melissa's joy and love of life brought new energy to our team and added to the youths experience in the group. We know she enriched our lives and those of the kids. She was always there to bring a smile to your face. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
With love, Elena, Ian and Evan Brown
Lynn & Dan McGinty
July 21, 2014
Joyce, John and family,
Such a tragedy! We are so very sorry for your loss. Our deepest sympathy to you; may God's loving arms surround you all, and give you His peace.
Mike & Melissa Kuisle
July 21, 2014
John, Joyce & Matt,
We're so sorry for your tragic loss. A wonderful soul was taken far too soon. With sympathy and prayers.
July 21, 2014
Melissa Protz family
I do not know your daughter but what a beatiful tribute. I am sorry for your loss. With Gods love and the wonderful memories of Melissa carry you through this difficult time. She is forever in your hearts and is an angel to carry your through.
Dan Brunner
July 21, 2014
John and Joyce,
I am very sorry for loss.She sounds like an amazing girl.You will be in my prayers.
Matt Kane
July 21, 2014
Dear Protz Family,
We were lucky enough to work with Melissa when she first moved to Seattle and teamed up with Jim Schneider and Kevin Roach in the mortgage business. Melissa was smart, upbeat, and had a huge heart. She made a lasting impression on our company and her loss is staggering. Our prayers are with you all.
Melissa's friends at Centennial Mortgage
Melissa Herrman Dunne
July 21, 2014
I am so sad to hear of Melissa's passing. She lived an incredible life but gone far too soon. You all are in my prayers.
Judi & Nick Nickels
July 21, 2014
John and Joyce:
Nick and I hope you find peace and comfort as happy memories of Melissa fill the sadness now in your hearts. Carry all the happy times in your hearts and perhaps it won't seem so heavy. There is a new angel flying in heaven and her name is Melissa Protz. We are sorry for your loss.
Judi & Nick
July 21, 2014
Dear Joyce, John, and Family, I am so so sorry to hear of your tragic news. You are in my thoughts and prayers. May God's angels be on your shoulders to give you comfort and strength.
Love, Rene Sibilsky Kaukauna, WI
Irene Sibilsky
July 21, 2014
Dear Joyce, John, and Family, I am so so sorry to learn of your tragic news. You are in my thoughts and prayers. May God's angels be on your shoulders to bring you comfort and strength.
July 21, 2014
Dear John and family:
My heart goes out to you and your family at this very sad time. I am so sorry for this terrible loss. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. Praying for strength, love and healing during this extremely sad time.
Love, Todd and Dayna Wech (Kohlbeck)
July 21, 2014
Dear John, Joyce, Matt, Mary Beth and your whole family. Our hearts are breaking for you to suffer this tragic loss of Melissa. Your beautiful daughter has touched so many lives, such a strong loving force. Sending you strength, love, and many hugs. God Bless you all. Love, Nancy and Bill
Kim Amontree
July 21, 2014
Dear Joyce-I was so saddened to hear about your daughter. It is a terrible tragedy that no mother should ever have to face. Please know that you and your family are in my prayers .
Deb Arrowood
July 21, 2014
So sorry for your loss. May her memory be eternal.
July 21, 2014
John and Joyce, Please accept our deepest sympathy to your whole family at this sad time. Our thoughts and prayers go with you. David & Catherine Schmidt
Casey Stelzer-Irish
July 21, 2014
Protz family, I am very sorry for your loss. May Melissa rest in peace in heaven.
July 21, 2014
Dear John and Joyce, Our hearts go out to you and your family. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers as you struggle with this horrible tragedy. May God comfort you and give you strength. Warm hugs and sincerest sympathies. Anna and Bob Krowiorz
July 21, 2014
I don't know if you remember me but I used to work for John and Joyce was my son's teacher. I think Wade.I want to express my deep sympathy for your loss. My prayers and thoughts are with you. GOD BLESS!
Sarah Jansen
July 21, 2014
I am so very sorry for your loss. You are all in my prayers.
July 21, 2014
John and Joyce and family will keep you in my prayers my deepest sympathy to all. Sincerely, Toni Schneider
Joyce you taught my children in Valders
Trent Nelson
July 21, 2014
Dearest Joyce, John and Matt (and the rest of Melissa's family/friends),
Words cannot express how saddened Amy and I and the rest of the Nelson families are for the loss of Melissa. She certainly was as (or more) wonderful than all of the others have expressed in their posts on here and elsewhere.
While it has been a lot of years since I have seen her, I will always remember teaching her tennis lessons, teaching/coaching tennis with her at NFTC, playing mixed doubles in the Manitowoc tournament and most importantly all of the fun times that surrounded all of those activities.
She was a wonderful, kind and loving soul that excluded noone from her circle. I was always interested to hear about her adventures - she certainly lived a lot of them!
It was a privilege to know her, and for that I thank you.
A beautiful life ended too soon. RIP MP, we will all miss you.
Trent and Amy Nelson
July 21, 2014
Judy Felton--from Egg Harbor and Punta Gorda
Br. Mikel Kadow
July 21, 2014
My deepest sympathy to all in the Protz family. Melissa was a credit to all including Roncalli High School. You are in my prayers!
dave wilhelm
July 21, 2014
John and Joyce..know you and family are in our thoughts and prayers at this saddest of times...
dee and dave wilhelm
Kathryn Merlino
July 21, 2014
My daughter, Maia, had Melissa the past two years for science, and she was her favorite teacher. She loved science so much, and I know most of that was because of Melissa. All of our school is so devastated by this horrible tragedy, and our hearts and prayers are with you all. Love, the Merlinos
July 21, 2014
Dear Protz family,
Our son was taught by Melissa this last year. She was truly inspiring to him and all the students at ASB.
He was lucky to know her and learn from her. She was a beautiful person and our hearts and prayers go out to you.
Tom and Ann Martin
Gail Ryan
July 21, 2014
Dear John and Joyce, extending my deepest sympathy for the loss of your daughter!! Please know you will be in my thoughts and prayers! May the Lord guide you through this difficult time.
Sheila Kries
July 20, 2014
The Bishop Blanchet HIgh School Community was graced with Melissa's presence as an exceptional student teacher. Our prayers go out to you during this difficult time of loss.
Sheila Kries, Principal, BBHS
Mary Jo and Dick Urban
July 20, 2014
Joyce and John, what an amazing, caring, loving daughter you raised. She leaves a strong legacy behind and will be forever missed by the many who love her. Matt and Mary Beth, she loved you both so much. Our prayers are with you all.
kay abramson
July 20, 2014
I knew Melissa only through the admiring eyes of my granddaughter, Kate who anticipated each day in science with Melissa. My heart goes out to you in your loss. Here in Seattle many young hearts are breaking....She inspired them all.
verna sitkiewitz
July 20, 2014
Joyce and John- May God give you strength to endure this terrible tragedy. My sympathy and prayers are with you.
Missy Becker
July 20, 2014
You are all in my thoughts and prayers. God must have something very special in mind for Melissa.
Danielle Poquette
July 20, 2014
Protz family, I am so very sorry to hear of Melissa's passing. My thoughts are with you all...
July 20, 2014
John, Joyce, Matt, Mary Beth, Our sympathy and sorrow to you and your family. What a beautiful girl and her passion for love of animals and children. Her blessings on earth were a true treasure for everyone. Thank you and your family for letting us share this special person with you. God Bless you, Love, Clyde, Roleen, & Anna-Lisa
July 20, 2014
So very,very sorry to hear of this most awful tragedy. Our deepest sympathies to beautiful families of heart of the passing of Melissa.A parent's worst nightmare. God bless with great tenderness and much love. Paulette and Rick Liebmann
Jan and Don Soeldner
July 20, 2014
We are at a loss for words. Our hearts are breaking for what you & your family are going through. Melissa's legacy,thoughtfulness, kindness, compassion,& love of life will continue "on" & "through", family, friends, students, co-workers even strangers who have been & will continue to be touched by her example of how to truly live life. Our deepest sympathies and love to you all.
July 20, 2014
Joyce and John...our hearts go out to you and your family. What a life that young lady lived--with vigor, joy, love, zest. May the Comforter hold you close.
Ann & Dick Blamey
Fond du Lac, WI
Kris Jurgens
July 20, 2014
Dear John,Joyce and family, my heart goes out to all of you, she was a beautiful child and has always held a very special place in my heart, what a blessing she was. May God hold you all in his hands and be with you during this most difficult time. I will keep you all in my prayers, she was a remarkable woman.
Love, Kris Coffin Jurgens.
July 20, 2014
Dear John, Joyce, and family, Our deepest sympathy at the loss of Melissa. May the Lord comfort you at this difficult time. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Dave and Toni Pflieger, Waussau, WI
Jeff Staddler
July 20, 2014
Please accept my sympathy during this difficult time. Let your memories be your strength. I have such good memories of Melissa as a student. I always appreciated her zest for learning. God bless you!
July 20, 2014
Joyce. John. Matt. Love Melissa,s memories. Know our thoughts prayers and love are sent to you all. Faye and Ken
Bette & Andy Hanson
July 20, 2014
John and Joyce,
So very sorry to hear of your loss. No parents should ever have to go through something like this. Melissa was a very beautiful person.
Judy Banker
July 19, 2014
Dear John, Joyce, Matt and the whole Protz family---My heart is broken for you on the loss of your beautiful, beloved Melissa. The depth of your terrible loss is unimaginable. My love and prayers are with you all.
Laura Wilker
July 19, 2014
My deepest sympathies to you all. I have you in my prayers through this tragic time.
Jerry & Teri Cummiskey
July 19, 2014
John, Joyce, Matt and family, may God ease your pain and comfort you during this time. We are so sad to hear about your family's loss of Melissa. We are sure she is now watching over all of you from heaven. Sending you all our thoughts, prayers and hugs.
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