Melissa Lee (Burkhart) King passed away on February 9, 2023 at Aspirus Rhinelander Hospital. She was 66 years old. Born to Robert and Diane Burkhart on September 14, 1956 in Waukegan, Illinois, Melissa was the youngest of four children. Later, she married the love of her life, James King, on November 2, 1980 at the First Congregational Church in Waukegan.

She was a graduate of Waukegan East High School. After dreaming and talking about it for years, in 2010 Melissa and Jim relocated to Summit Lake to live "Up North." Most recently, she was employed at Pick n' Save.

Melissa enjoyed finding the funny in life. She often made others laugh by her directness and humorous disposition. She loved spending time with her children and grandchildren, sewing special projects for them, and baking desserts. Melissa treasured living Up North enjoying the changing seasons, peaceful environment, and wildlife. When chatting with friends or family, she frequently had them in tears from laughing so much as she recounted one of her everyday Northern experiences.

Melissa is survived by her children, Michelle (Ricky) Dove of Almo, Kentucky, John (Mary) King of Guam, and Shawn (Ashley) King of Pearson; six grandchildren, Kyle (Aaron), Zehira, Aliza, Edward, Charlotte, and Henry; siblings Carrie Taylor of Antioch, Illinois, Heather (Jim) Dorsey of Gurnee, Illinois, and Steve (Melinda) Burkhart of Ventura, California; and sister-in-law Debbie King of Green Bay.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband and parents.

Following Melissa's wishes, a private service will be held.

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