Melissa Kathleen Frendo

Melissa Kathleen (Burton) Frendo, age 61, died peacefully and surrounded by family in her home in Hesperia, MI on 7/15/20. Born to Evelyn (Wanket) and Robert Burton in La Jolla, CA on 4/17/59, Melissa served Hesperia Community Schools for over 30 years. In her capacity as daycare director, elementary school counselor, and first grade teacher, she touched many lives. Her passion for education and thirst for knowledge is not only reflected in her achievements, both professionally and academically, (Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Aquinas College, Masters in Counseling from University of LaVerne, Masters in Education from Aquinas College), but in the achievements of her children and grandchildren. Her legacy lives in her daughters Rebecca, Molly, and Genevieve, her son Joseph Benjamin, and her grandsons Jackson, Macgwire, and Braddock. Melissa is survived by her husband of 41 years, Joseph Hubert Frendo. They were engaged after 6 weeks of dating and married on 6/15/79. Yet another sterling example of Melissa's commitment and spirit, she loved fiercely, deeply and was equally loved in return; by her husband, by her family, by her friends. That spirit never dampened or darkened, even as she battled ovarian cancer, and there is no doubt that she is spreading love and light amongst those who preceded her death, including her grandson Joseph Scott. Our family wishes to thank the teams at Spectrum Hospice and Palliative Care for taking such special care of our mother. Due to the complication implicit to COVID-19, details for a memorial to celebrate her life will be made available at a later date; we are looking forward to safely honoring her memory together. In the meantime, please share any memories, anecdotes or kind words about her via email (frendofamilyfoundation@gmail.com). She made the lives of those around her better every day and it's been so meaningful to hear from others how she influenced them. If you wish to donate, in lieu of flowers, there will be a trust set up under her name to purchase clothes, shoes, personal items, etc. for children in need at Hesperia Community Schools. Rest now, sweet Mama.