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Michael Melnyk Obituary
Michael G. Melnyk III, 18, Longswamp Township, died Nov. 30, 2009, in Lehigh Valley Hospital, Salisbury Township, shortly after being admitted with injuries suffered when he fell from a moving vehicle in Rockland Township.
Born Aug. 3, 1991, in Winston-Salem, N.C., he was a son of Michael J. Melnyk Jr., with whom he resided, and Ralli L. (Perrine) Melnyk, Reading.
He was a member of Saint Mary's Roman Catholic Church, Kutztown.
Michael was a senior at Brandywine Heights Area School District, Topton, where he was a defensive back and goalie on the soccer team, a wrestler, wrestling at the 145 1b. weight class, and a labaro on the volleyball team.
Michael was also a member of Future Business Leaders of America, a member of the power lifting team, and was recently named the ambassador of spirit at Brandywine Heights Area High School athletic events. He also participated in the Senior Arts Fashion Show, was a counselor to the fifth-grade camp for two years and loved assisting the Bullet Mat Club young wrestlers. During the summer of 2008, he played soccer in England.
Michael was instrumental in gathering people to attend all the playoff, division, county and state title games for Brandywine Heights volleyball team.
He was employed as a lifeguard at the Topton Community Pool, Topton, and managed his friends with maintenance at Dude's Apartments, Reading.
Michael enjoyed life, his large families, school, travel and hanging with his friends.
Surviving are his mother, Ralli L. (Perrine) Melnyk, special friend of John L. D'Augustine III, Reading; father, Michael J. Melnyk, companion of Donna K. (Fenstermacher) Loos, Mertztown; and sisters Amanda K., Jordan R. and Meagan R. Loos, at home. He is also survived by a maternal grandmother, Irene K. (Yatron) Perrine, Reading, and paternal grandparents Michael Sr. and Elizabeth (Miller) Melnyk, Lutheran Meadows, Topton. In addition, he is survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, Dec. 4, 2009, at 10 a.m. in Saint Mary's Roman Catholic Church, 14833 Kutztown Road, Kutztown, with Monsignor Walter T. Scheaffer as celebrant. Interment in Berks County Memorial Gardens, Maidencreek Township. Friends may call Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m. in Ludwick Funeral Home, 333 Greenwich St., Kutztown.
The family requests contributions be made to Michael G. Melnyk III Memorial Fund, c/o Ludwick Funeral Homes Inc., P.O. Box 292, Kutztown, PA 19530-0292.
Online condolences may be recorded at www.ludwickfh.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Melnyk
December 15, 2009
Ralli, Mike and family
Our deepest sympathy during this very difficult time. May the memories of Mike comfort you. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Doug, Deb and Kris Levengood
December 13, 2009
Dear Mike and family,
My deepest sympathy during this time. God's love be with you.
Bob Paul
Kevin and Ann Marie Cassidy
December 9, 2009
Mike and Family,
I am profoundly sorry to hear of your tragic loss. I know that words are of little solice and cannot take away the pain and grief you are now feeling. But please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. I pray that God's peace will be with you in your time of need. God Bless You!
Paige Johnson
December 8, 2009
Mike & Family,
I did not know michael but i was good friends with his cousin paige. I'll pray for all of you everyday! I've lost 3 friends in the last two years and i know what students at brandywine are going through. best wishes to all of you. You all are in my thoughts and prayers.
Paige Johnson, senior, Schuylkill Valley HS.
December 7, 2009
Mike and Family,
We think of you every day for your loss that could be no greater. My son thought very highly of Michael and I know will miss him deeply. You are in our thoughts and prayers
Michael and Lori Skumanick, Adam DaCosta and Jonathan Skumanick
The Jenkins Family~ Ren, Kim, Alex, Val and Garrett
December 7, 2009
Dear Mike and Family,
God bless you all as you struggle to make sense of this profound loss. Mike was a great young man. We will miss his smiling face and fun-loving personality. The community will feel the void of his passing for a long, long time. RIP, dear Michael.
December 7, 2009
Dear Family
Please accept my deepest sympathy on your loss. Mike will be very much missed at school as well.
Martin and Roberta Handler
Patricia & Gregory Holden
December 7, 2009
Ralli, Mike, and all your families,
Our profound sympathy to all of you in this time of great loss. Hold tight to memories for comfort. Lean on your family and friends for strength, and always remember how much you are cared about.
Miguel Gutierrez
December 6, 2009
Dear Mr. Melnyk
I am so sorry to read about the lost of your son. Our family prayers will be with you and your family. May God give you strength in these difficult times.
December 5, 2009
Our hearts are breaking for you !
Good Family
John Bolar
December 5, 2009
Dear Mike,
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
December 5, 2009
Dear Ralli and Family:
My Mom and I feel deeply for the tragic loss of your son. It's very difficult to understand why our loved ones are taken from us but please know that each passing day, month and year will help to slowly bring peace and comfort back into your lives.
Capt John C. Kramer, USAF, and Doris Kramer
December 5, 2009
Mike & family,
I am sorry to read about the loss of your son. I will keep you and your family in my prayers.
Bob Carter, USPS
Greensboro NC
December 4, 2009
Our thoughts and prays are with your entire family.
Danita , Zach, Logan and McKaide Fenstermacher
Philip Gallen
December 4, 2009
Mike and Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I can't begin to imagine the pain you must be going through. I will keep you in my prayers. May God bless you.
December 4, 2009
Mel and Family,
I am so sad to hear about your loss of your beloved son. I can't imagine the depth of your grief. I'll keep you in my prayers...
Kim and Steve Wagner
Geist Sporting Goods
December 4, 2009
Our sympathy and prayers are with your family and friends during this difficult time.
Jim McDermott
December 4, 2009
Mike and Family,
My heart and prayers go out to you. I can't even imagine the grief that you are all going through because of this loss. God be with all of you!!
Angie Anderson
December 4, 2009
Ralli and Family,
You are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. If you need anything, please let me know.
Miriam Hemmings (ugi)
December 4, 2009
Ralli and Family,
I am deeply sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you thru this very tough time.
Bill and Dot Hartman
December 3, 2009
Ralli, Mike and Family,
Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers as you walk experience this. We trust you will find peace in the support and care of many people.
Bill and Dot,
Jessica Meadows
Anne (Wenrich) Brueck
December 3, 2009
Dear Mike and Family,
I am so sorry for the loss of your son. He sounds like he was an amazing guy and I hope that you can take comfort in all the lives he touched. I wish I had known him. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
December 3, 2009
We are very sorry for your loss. Our prayers are with you.
Rich and Ryan Bair
Bruce & Kade
December 3, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Kathy Hoffman
December 3, 2009
Mike,Donna & Family,
I am still in shock that Mike is gone. Aaron thinks of him as a little brother and he was so often in our home. Just the thought of never seeing his bright, infectious smile saddens me so. What a wonderful, giving, awesome "dude"! He accomplished so much in this short time on this earth. One can only imagine what plans the Lord has for him in in heaven. Our prayers and deepest sympathy goes out to you all.
Ronda & Scott
December 3, 2009
Dear Ralli & Family,
I do not have any words to make this better. May all the wonderful memories you have comfort you and lighten your grief over time. I am here for you, just a phone call away.
December 3, 2009
Dear Ralli, Aunt Irene, and Paul,
My heart is broken for you and am deeply saddened. Always know that Michael will forever be alive in your hearts and he will always be with you. Ralli, please call me for anything
Margy and Alyssa
Lori Angstadt
December 3, 2009
Mike was a bright light in my government class and the class of 2010 at Brandywine. He was a true friend who put his heart and soul into everything he did. His spirit and smile was infectious. As I listened to my students share their memories and feelings, I realized he lived life more fully than many of us. He has taught us all that life is precious and we must not take it or those we love for granted. Mike will be a part of us forever.
Jen and Bill Smith and Family
December 3, 2009
Dear Mike, Donna, and Family,
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this extremely difficult time.
Shara Sweitzer
December 3, 2009
Words cannot express the pain I feel for your family. I am grateful for having the pleasure to teach Michael this year. His positive, friendly and funny attitude added something truly special to our class. He was dedicated to anything he took on whether it was a project, a sport or even a friendship. Michael will be greatly missed among his peers and faculty at Brandywine. Please know your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
December 3, 2009
I shall miss his smiling face, ALWAYS
said "Hello Mrs. Singer!". My son Jon
thought the world of him.
You are in my thoughts and prayers, and you should feel proud that you raised such a fine young man ... never forget that!
Peace to Michael, Rebekah Singer
December 3, 2009
I can't imagine the unimaginable pain your family is going through. Please know that we are going through it with you. Michael will be missed.
Debbie (Reber)Belcastro
December 3, 2009
Dear Ralli and family,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. You all are in my thoughts and prayers. Ralli if you need anything, please give me a call. Love,
Wendy Ingram
December 2, 2009
As you grieve know that we are remembering you and honoring Michael's memory. May your heart and soul find peace and comfort.
Wendy & Mercedes Ingram
December 2, 2009
Mike, Donna, Amanda, Jordan, Meagan and Ralli,
Words can not express the sorrow we are feeling for you. We can only hope all the memories you have of Mike will help to ease the pain alittle. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. If there is anything we can do for you please do not hesitate to call. Just remember he is an angel looking down on us from heaven with that great big smile!
God Bless you.
Dan, Kim, Nathan, Kayla and Jacob Knauss
Dan, Tracey, Justin, Nicholas & Alex Hersh
December 2, 2009
Dear Melnyk family,
We did not know Michael personally, however our oldest son Justin had the honor of sharing time with him during 5th grade camp this past year. Our thoughts and prayers are with you through this difficult time.
Terry Brossman Jr and Family
December 2, 2009
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help at this time.
Scott & Cindy Hettinger
December 2, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers will be with you during this horrible time.
Missy Hartman
December 2, 2009
Mike was a great soccer player for the Topton Soccer Club, for which I coached him for many years. To both families, there are NO words to express your loss....but may you know that he is looking down upon us all...to encourage us to be strong. God Bless you all. You know that you have a great support team from the Brandywine High School and Topton Soccer Club.
Chris Cole
December 2, 2009
Mike was the ideal student to have in class who always put forth his best effort. The thing I will remember the most about him is that infectious smile and how he always went out of his way to say hello. My thoughts and prayers are with your family during this trying time.
dawn & david moore
December 2, 2009
At this time there is nothing we can say the the Melnyk family that will ease your pain. Our thoughts and prayers are with your entire family. May god bless and watch over you in these trying time. Mike is smiling over us now , our lord must have needed a wrestling and soccer coach. We will be praying for you that you get thru this time.
S Bernhard
December 2, 2009
We are so sorry to hear of this terrible loss - Mike always brought a smile to my face. There are no words that can ease your pain, but please know that you are all in our thoughts and we will hold Mike in our memories.
~Sue, Megan and Alex Bernhard
Jill and Steve Cebenko and Family
December 2, 2009
With sincere sympathy for your loss of your precious son and step-son... May the peace of Christ sustain you through this most difficult time.
Helen Miller
December 2, 2009
Dear Ralli I cannot imagine the pain you are feeling. You were a gift to Michael as he was to you. You have so many memories that you helped make possible. Keep these in mind and know that you have many friends who love you and are here for you. God bless you all.
Joe Schuchman
December 2, 2009
Mike, Ralli and family,
I just heard of your loss. I cannot even begin to imagine what each of you must be experiencing. Just wanted to share my wishes, extend my sympathy and let you know you are being remembered in prayers.
Sandra Utsch
December 2, 2009
Although I was at Brandywine Heights for only a short time, I have fond memories of Mike in English class last year. He always brought a smile to class with him. I am so sorry for your loss, and will remember him always.
Keeney's
December 2, 2009
We are very sorry to learn of the loss of your son Mike. My children spoke very fondly of him at Longswamp playground last summer and enjoyed watching him at soccer games in the fall. we did not know him personally, but I"ve always heard how great his work ethic was with everything he tried and I think that is something that was obvious to anyone who knew him! Once again we are very sorry for your loss and the communities loss as well, because he was a very active member of it.
Scott, Michelle, Dylan and Brody Lesher
December 2, 2009
To the Melnyk family,
We are very sorry for your loss, our thoughts are with you all. Mike was a great friend to Dylan and he provided Brody with many laughs during wrestling practice and at fifth grade camp. He will be missed dearly.
December 2, 2009
Mike, Donna and Family,
You're in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. Take comfort in knowing he is in God's hands.
Karen Yoder and the Staff at the Bernville Post Office
Nicholas & Min-Yeh
December 2, 2009
There are no words of wisdom in such a tragedy. We can only treasure our memories of Michael and try to help the family in their time of suffering.
With deepest condolences and love,
The Knauss Family
December 2, 2009
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2009
A C
December 2, 2009
I do not know you or your family but my heart breaks for you as I read this news. My deepest and most sincere condolences.
The Knauss Family
December 2, 2009
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2009
Agvent/Chadwick Family
December 2, 2009
We are heartbroken for your loss and wish you peace in this terribly difficult time.
Terri Cafoncelli
December 2, 2009
Mike, Donna and family,
I cannot put into words how devastated we are about your loss. You were so good to Mike and you were there for every moment of his life. I remember his smile whenever he was with Mike at the Post Office. I pray that eventually your wonderful memories will overcome your pain and loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers. If there is anything we can do at any time, please let us know. Terri and Dan Cafoncelli
Kia Hoffman
December 2, 2009
I wish there was something I could do to ease the pain. I am so sorry for your loss. - Love, Kia
Cynthia Newcomb
December 2, 2009
Ralli
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
December 2, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Mike, Lora, Madison and Mason Deeds
Topton, PA
Carol Kneeream
December 2, 2009
Ralli, family and friends,
It breaks my heart to hear of the loss of such a young and vibrant person. I have an 18yr old son also and cannot imagine the grief you are enduring. May all the wonderful memories of his life help to lighten your grief over time. My prayers and thoughts will always be with you and Mike.
Maria, Bione & Bo Candelaria
December 2, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort. He will be missed.
Nathan Swoyer
December 2, 2009
I'm sorry for your loss. Mike was a great kid. He will be greatly missed.
Theresa Lape
December 2, 2009
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
John Joseph Yanek, Freedom Boy's Volleyball Head Coach
December 2, 2009
May you find comfort and peace in all the memories that you shared with Michael. May these help you through this time of grief. One does not know why God wanted such a special person. Here's hoping he continues to play a heck of a libero in heaven.
Donna and Bill Fenstermacher
December 2, 2009
Mike and Donna,
We are so sorry to hear of this tragedy and wish there was something we could do to ease your pain. Please know you are both in our thoughts and do not hesitate to call if there is anything we can do.
December 2, 2009
Mike, Donna and family,
My condolences to you at this difficult time.
Cindy Poboy
USPS
Milton
Dave Schmidt
December 2, 2009
Our familys thoughts and prayers are with you and your family Mike. May GOD help you find peace and comfort you and your family through this time. Our deepest condolences. The Schmidt Family
Ralph Butera & Family
December 2, 2009
Mike, Donna, & Family
Our sincere condolances in your time of tragedy, May God be with you all and give you the stregnth to bare this cross, our Prayers are with you all.
December 2, 2009
Ralli,John,and The Melnyk family,
As you know last December Stan and I lost our son to head injuries sustained through a car accident.The loss of a child is a loss no one should have to endure...Our prayers and thoughts are with you..Ralli when you are ready to talk, cry, laugh or just tell the stories of the memories that are now your treasures, please call me.. Love Linda Hess
Janet Gilmer
December 2, 2009
Ralli and family,
I am so sorry for the loss of your son. You are in my prayers.
C. Hillegass
December 2, 2009
I am so very sorry to hear of Mike's passing.One can only imagine the raging grief which seems to envelope you at this time.Mike was a wonderful human being who blessed so many with that infectious smile! I'm holding all of you up in my prayers. May you take comfort in the fact that Mike was a bright and shining star while he was here.
Kevin Collins
December 2, 2009
You are in my familys thoughts and prayers. God Bless You!
Karen Walia
December 2, 2009
Michael was a kind and caring young man who is sorely missed. He was a hard worker and one of my favorite students at BHAHS my first year here. His work at it until you get it right attitude was admirable. He always had a warm "hello" and respectful attitude missing in all too many of young people today. All who knew him miss him. May God be with you in this time of sorrow.
Bruno Facini
December 2, 2009
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.
Jenn Mendoza
December 2, 2009
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Brenda Cullen
December 2, 2009
To Michael, Your Family and Friends,
I did not know you or your family. My heart breaks for all of you. Please know that you are in the thoughts and prayers of many. God Bless You All
December 2, 2009
...our deepest condolences...may the love and support of friends and family help to hold and protect you...you are in our thoughts and prayers...you need only ask if there is anything we can do...Carol and Tony Dignazio, Topton
December 2, 2009
Our heart breaks for such a tragedy. My the peace of Christ surround you and your family during this terrible time. Michael will be greatly missed.
The Ernst family
Brandywine
December 2, 2009
Michael and family,
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family in your time of grief.
Joel and Sandy Blankenbiller
Shillington,PA
Kim Grasso
December 2, 2009
I know there is nothing I can say to ease your pain. Please know my heart is with you. I wish you the strength to get through this. I am here always, anytime day or night. I am so sorry for your loss.
Kim Jones
December 2, 2009
Ralli and Melnyk family,
I am so deeply sorry to hear of your loss! My thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of need. Ralli we used to work together at E-W and I remember you speaking of him. Words cannot express what you are feeling but may you know Mike is with you in heaven. God Bless You!
December 2, 2009
Oh how Michael knew exactly what to say to bring smiles and numerous laughs to a crowd. I cherish the opportunity I had to travel with him and the boys on Daniel's 16th birthday trip to Florida. I was able to see Michael beyond his love for video games, to his indubitable love for his friends--a bond that none of them will ever forget. I am blessed to have been touched and in the presence of Michael's character. Michael: a son, a brother, a grandson, a cousin, a nephew, a friend...And now, an angel of the Lord.
May God Bless you and your family in this time and always,
Stefanie Schartel
Dsrosiers' Babysitter
Topton, PA
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