Kim S. Melanson

Kim (Stewart) Melanson, 61, of Bristol, beloved wife of Richard Melanson, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 14, 2026, surrounded by friends and family, after a brief illness.

Kim was born in Bristol on September 28, 1964, to Ruth "Bunny" (Pueschel) Stewart and the late Paul Stewart where she graduated from Lewis S. Mills High School and later was a dedicated paraprofessional with the Bristol Board of Education for over 20 years.

Kim loved the outdoors, especially the shoreline where you could find her walking at Hammonasset Beach, cruising around Riverdale Campground on her golf cart, or taking a boat ride, and breathing in the sea air in the summertime. However, she found her greatest happiness not in things, but with those who surrounded her. As a loving mother, Kim devoted her whole heart to her sons. Taking immense pride in their achievements and happiness, and always offering unwavering support for any and all hobbies, even after experiencing a rogue fish hook accident one summer that landed her in urgent care. A mother's love truly knows no bounds.

Along with her husband and "anchor" of 39 years, Richard, Kim is survived by her two sons, Nathan Melanson and his wife Danielle of Old Lyme, and Brandon Melanson and his wife Savanna of Harwinton. She was blessed with loving in-laws, Don and Mary Melanson, as well as best friends that turned into family, whose kindness and compassion provided great comfort and strength during the progression of her illness. Kim also leaves behind her two brothers, Kenneth Stewart and his wife Diana of Torrington, and Keith Stewart and his wife Cheryl of Colebrook, several nieces, nephews, her grandson Jack Melanson, her faithful canine companion Cooper. Kim was welcomed into Heaven by her father "Stew", brother Craig Stewart and her beloved Golden Retriever, Fenway.

Your bright and infectious laughter was a gift you so freely shared and will continue to echo in the hearts of all who knew and loved you.

Services for Kim will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, donations in Kim's honor may be made to the Alzheimer's Association. Funk Funeral Home, 35 Bellevue Ave., Bristol, CT 06010, is honored to be assisting the family during this difficult time.