Melanie Burch Obituary
Publish in a newspaper
Melanie was born April 1st, 1951. She was adopted by Stephen and Helen Paluch. They ran the movie theaters in Perry and Durand as well as the Durand drive-in. Her childhood was spent there watching movies and working when she got older. This is where her love of the classic movies was born. From birthday parties to teen heartthrobs, she fell in love with the magic. When they took a break from the theaters, Munising was her sanctuary. Summers on the lake were her freedom. As life went on she became a wife and mother. She loved her role even when the road was bumpy. Her time was filled with family and friends. Her love of 50s and 60s music stayed a constant in her home. As life transitioned she fell in love with the role of grandmother. From her sleepovers to her all out Christmases, this is where her home became "Grandma's House". In retirement she loved spending time at her cottage in Alpena. Sharing her love of the Michigan lakes with her family was very meaningful to her.
Reconnecting with her fellow 69' classmates was also a highlight. Their monthly meetups meant so much to her. She succumbed to her battle with cancer on May 6th, 2025. Her strength was never so evident as during this time. It will live on in her family.
Melanie is survived by her children: Lynette (Peter) Tharnish and Bill (Krissie) Burch. Grandchildren: Jessica (Travis) Waldo, Peter and Lorraine Tharnish, Mariah and Karlee Burch. Great grandchildren: Adilynn Waldo and Myla Burch, As well as nieces and nephews.
Those desiring, memorials are suggested to the charity of the donors choice.
Online condolences may be shared at www.watkinsfuneralhomes.com.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Melanie, please visit our floral store.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
1 Entry
Jackie Gruesbeck
May 8, 2025
Sincere & heartfelt sympathy to you, Melanies family. I have known Melanie for many years. I babysat both Melanie & her brother when her folks had the drive in in Durand. Melanie & I also worked on a project for the McQueen House to donate photos etc. My heart is sad, may her star shine ever so brightly in the Heavens
How you can show support
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Showing 1 - 1 of 1 results
214 S. Main St., Perry, MI 48872
Make a Donation
in Melanie Burch's name
Please consider a donation as requested by the family.
People and places connected with Melanie
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
How to support Melanie's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Melanie Burch's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
