Melodee Elizabeth (LaPointe) Anderson

- slightly edited from Melodee’s own writing –

Melodee Elizabeth LaPointe Anderson

October 01, 1957 – August 05, 2019

“Proud to say that at last I have a smoking hot body. (You can laugh. It’s ok.)

Melodee: the youngest of nine. Mom had run out of names so when another lady in labor wanted to call her baby Melodee, she had a boy and I got a name.

Elizabeth: Named after my great aunt Bessie Nelles – also from Dayton.

LaPointe: my parents, Merle (Toby) and Dorilla. My heritage is French/French Canadian. Just enough Irish to ask for kisses on St. Patrick’s Day and enough Scottish to enjoy an occasional whiskey coke. I am also 100% stubborn and extremely determined. I was told when I had my heart attack that they didn’t know how I survived. I was simply not ready, but I guess I’ve just gotten tired. My folks and family were my inspiration for my first 30 years of life – and then –

Anderson: I found my Joseph. The Lord looked down and smiled when he sent Joe to me. The love of my life – Always! The best friend I could ever have. He had raised me for almost 30 years. His strength and support have been my rock. With all we have been through we find a way to love and laugh everyday.

Family: Muriel Courteau, Marilyn and Bob Burwell, Dan and Peg LaPointe, Bobby and Sandy Emery, Kathleen LaPointe, Michelle LaPointe, Genelle and Bill Blackhurst. I also had a sister Diane and a son, Dustin, which are deceased. I am blessed with a multitude of extended family and friends that are my constant.

My son, Britton Ritch, was my first love. We were strong for each other when we needed to be. He brought me such joy and happiness. I think we raised each other until Joe came along. Thankfully Britt was blessed with beautiful girls – Iesha, Aaliyah, and Giada. He also has an adorable grandson, Ezra.

Last but certainly not least, my dog Sadie. She is the best companion, ever. I shared tears, secrets, and love with that little pup. She is loyal as can be and it comforts me to know we’ll be united in the rainbow bridge someday.

Life: I grew up in Dayton, next to Chuck’s Bar. I attended the 2 room school house until the end of 4th grade when the school closed. But living in Dayton meant everyone was family. We knew everyone and looked out for each other. You were never alone if you are from Dayton, and that support is a forever feeling.

When my health issues began they came on like a storm. Our lives flipped over in a heartbeat – literally. Joe never hesitated, but stepped up to the plate. I’ve found strength I never knew I had, but I did not want to miss a moment of the journey. My greatest desire was NOT to be remembered for my illness, but admired for my strength, love, and desire to help others. Please do not mourn my passing, but celebrate memories of my life. Despite many pitfalls we manage to find joy and laughter every day.

I moved to Elk River after graduation in 1975. We lived there until 2016 when we moved to Big Lake due to my declining health. I truly love our home. The gardens, birds, our fires in the fireplace. It is ideal and truly my forever home. A great part of my ability to remain home is because of the most amazing friend, Debbie. She is a constant with my health needs, taking care of my home, Joe and Sadie, and helping me believe in myself and my strength.

I can honestly say my life has been based on family, friends, and faith. The nurturing of each is equally important. My family is my foundation, my friends are my family by choice, and my faith is everlasting.

There is not enough time to acknowledge all the people in my life that have helped to define me. But every contribution to my life when joined along the way has made me the person I am. And I am very content as that person. So please know that whether family, friend, healthcare professional or causal acquaintance – you have made a difference and thank you for your efforts.”

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Melodee E. Anderson, age 61, of Elk River and formerly Dayton passed away peacefully in her sleep on August 05 with her family and friends present.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Merle and Dorilla LaPointe; son, Dustin; and sister, Diane. She is deeply missed by her loving husband of 27 years, Joe; son, Britton (Amy); granddaughters, Iesha, Aaliyah, Giada; great grandson, Ezerah; seven siblings; and other extended family and friends.

 A Memorial Mass will be held at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 183 Columbus Street - Dayton, on Friday August 16 at 11:00 am with a visitation one hour prior. In lieu of flowers memorials preferred.

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