Obituary of Melissa Darlene Vandegeer

Melissa D. Vandegeer of Independence, passed away on Saturday, January 4, 2024, at St. Elizabeth Healthcare in Fort Thomas. She was born on November 16, 1966, to the Late Peggy {Saylor} and Forest Blake in Franklin, Ohio. A devoted grandmother, Melissa, cherished spending time with her grandson, Bohdi, and taking joy in caring for him. She also found joy in gardening and loved tending to her plants. In addition to her love of gardening, she was a dedicated animal lover and found great comfort in caring for her pets. Melissa liked to watch her favorite sports teams, including the Cincinnati Reds, the Bengals, and UK Basketball. She was a beloved Mother, Grandmother, and Friend. Above all, Melissa will be remembered for her loving and caring nature. She was a generous soul who always put the needs of others before her own. Her warmth, compassion, and unwavering support will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Alfred Vandegeer.

She is survived by her sons, Chris (Jennifer) Vandegeer, Ben (Brittany) Vandegeer, and Gregory (Cristina) Vandegeer; grandchildren, Joseph, Luke, Edith, and Bohdi; sister, Jacquelyn (Joe) Crowder; and her cousin, Tammy Kaiser; as well as several other friends and relatives who will cherish her memory.

In keeping with Melissa’s wishes, no formal services will be held at this time. Melissa will be laid to rest next to her husband at the Kentucky Veterans Cemetery North in Williamstown, KY. Memorial donations can be made in her name to the American Heart Association.