Melanie Ann Parks

ELKHART- Melanie Ann Parks, 60, of Elkhart, died Thursday July 28, 2022, at her residence in Elkhart.  She was born July 28, 1962, in Elkhart to Charles Richard Parks & Judy Darlene Pontius.

     Surviving is her sister, Barb (Al) Bute; 2 brothers, Jason (Christina) Lewis, James (Teresa) Lewis and her nieces and nephews, Jessica Sawyer, Ashley Bute, Sarah Bute, Haleigh Fleck, Hunter Anderson, Hannah Lewis, Owen Lewis, Wyatt Lewis, and Weston Lewis.  Melanie was preceded in death by her Father Charles Richard Parks, Mother Judy Darlene Pontius (Lewis), Stepfather Roger Dale Lewis, Sister (Mary Elizabeth Parks), and her beloved dogs (Zoe, Sophie, & Bebe).

     Prior to early retirement, Melanie was the Associate Dean of the College of Visual and Performing Arts at Northern Illinois University.  Prior to her appointment as Associate Dean, she served as a tenured faculty member in the NIU School of Theatre and Dance where she taught costume design and served as the school’s Undergraduate Advisor.  She was a dog lover and always had a rescue Maltese by her side, including her beloved Luna, who was by her side as she passed.  She loved music, movies, fashion, and absolutely loved shoes!  Anyone who met her would tell you she was the kindest soul you would ever meet.

     Melanie passed away after a 5-year battle with brain cancer.  True to who she was, she fought to the very end and did so with style and class.  She will be dearly missed by all who spent time with her.

     In lieu of flowers, please send donations to: the American Cancer Society.  Elkhart Cremation Services is entrusted with her care.

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