Melissa Balke

Melissa Claire Balke, a beacon of light and compassion, passed away on April 18, 2024, in Aurora, Colorado, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and dedication. Born on July 11, 1985, in Amarillo, Texas, Melissa’s journey was one of resilience and unwavering spirit.

Melissa’s early years were marked by loss when her mother, Judy (Michaud) Reynolds, departed this world when Melissa was just two and a half years old. She spent the next year and a half with her aunt Claire and Uncle Bob Rakowski, finding solace and love in her extended family in New England. Upon her father’s, Robert Reynolds, remarriage to Debra, Melissa was able to return home to Amarillo, and her family grew, providing her with the support and love she cherished throughout her life.

Driven by her passion for knowledge, Melissa pursued education fervently, attending both AIMS Community College and the University of Northern Colorado. It was during this time that Melissa’s desire to make a difference in the world blossomed. She became deeply involved in initiatives to create hunger-free campuses, embodying her commitment to serving others. Melissa’s dedication to her studies culminated in her pursuit of a bachelor’s degree in psychology, with graduation set for May 4, 2024. Her dream of becoming a university admissions advisor, guiding students to find their true calling, reflected her empathetic nature and desire to uplift those around her.

On June 5, 2011, Melissa embarked on another chapter of her life as she married Anthony “Tony” Balke. Together, they ventured to Colorado, where they built a life filled with love, laughter, and shared dreams. Melissa’s infectious zest for life drew people to her, and she cultivated deep friendships at both colleges in Colorado and from her hometown.

Melissa’s love for lilac bushes and the color purple mirrored her vibrant spirit and gentle soul. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life and shared that joy generously with those around her.

Melissa is preceded in death by her beloved mother, Judy; but her memory lives on through her father, Robert, and stepmother, Debra; her devoted husband, Tony; her cherished son, Brandon; her siblings, Becky (Charlie), Monica (Phillip), Brad, and Ben (Jackie); and a multitude of extended family members and friends.

As we bid farewell to Melissa, we are reminded of the impact she made on our lives and the world around her. Her legacy of compassion, resilience, and unwavering love will continue to inspire us all. In lieu of flowers please make donations in Melissa’s name to The Marfan Foundation by visiting marfan.org/donate or Hunger Free Colorado at hungerfreecolorado.org/donate.

Services to honor Melissa’s life will be announced at a later date, providing an opportunity for those whose lives she touched to come together and celebrate the beautiful soul that she was. Though she may be gone from our sight, Melissa will forever remain in our hearts, a shining beacon of light guiding us forward with love and grace.