Melissa Jane French, 58, a Laramie resident, passed away earlier in July following a long and difficult battle with her health. She was a musician, holding a degree in music from Berklee College of Music and a master’s in horn performance from the University of Wyoming. In her earlier years, Melissa was a member of the Casper Troopers, and went on to become an instructor with the horn line. She had won the Sallie Mae Award for Outstanding New Teacher in Wyoming, She was smart, funny, talented, and loved to laugh, as well as to swim, bike, and ski. She loved her cats and all animals. She will be greatly missed by sisters Deborah French-Ewing of Laramie and Marilyn Orozco of Seattle, and her three nieces and nephew. Her parents, William E. and Marilyn N. French of Scottsbluff, NE preceded her in death. Her ashes will be interred at St. Matthew’s Cathedral in Laramie. May Melissa rest in peace and rise in glory.
I Didn't know Melissa well, However she seemed to put her whole heart and soul into her music. We were all blessed to have her as a classmate . Also, she was a very conscientious marching band member. Now it's Melissa's turn to be the wind beneath one of her students or fellow musicians wings. Fly, fly........High into the sky........Thank you for the time you spent with us.
I have so many memories of Melissa.My cousin. Rest in peace, girl.
My wife and I knew Melissa from her days in the Troopers, and at UW. She was a fabulously talented and accomplished musician, and a great person. Please know there are many like us that have fond memories of her, and hold her in high regard.
I knew Melissa from the apartment building that I live in. We just sort of clicked.. Same sense of humor, same love of cats and just some interesting conversations. I am happy to have called her my friend and send my condolences to her family. I will miss having her in my life. Kay Hoch
Marilyn and Deb- I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Melissa. I know this releases her from so many years of pain, and Pray that will bring some measure of comfort to you. We have the fondest of memories of our years as neighbors, and the love for you built on sharing a childhood. You’re imprinted on our hearts, and we hold you there, wishing you peace. Much love- Julie (Pengelly) Schaff
Melissa was my cousin who I hadn’t seen for some time, but have very fond memories of her. Sorry to hear of her passing-May she Rest In Peace. Marilyn and Debbie, prayers of comfort to you during this hard time. Micki Nelson