Joanne J. Melse

On February 7, 2019, Joanne J. Melse (Janse), age 96, of Grand Rapids, MI, peacefully left this world surrounded by love and family.  Born in Wolphaartsdijk, Netherlands, as a young woman Joanne aided in the efforts of the Nazi Resistance including helping her family hide American pilots in their home during World War II.  She married Leonard Melse and they both immigrated to the United States in the early 1950’s.  Initially settling in Grand Rapids, MI they moved to Lansing, MI where they raised their family and established the family interior design business, Leonard Melse Associates. Joanne later worked at Jacobson’s in East Lansing and East Grand Rapids, MI.  The family enjoyed many years of boating and spending time at their cottage in Pentwater, MI.  Her life radiated an unassuming elegance, a warm sense of humor, a welcoming smile, and a great love for her family. She will be greatly missed.  She was preceded in death by an infant son and her husband, Leonard Melse. She is survived by her children, John (Jodee) Melse, Marlene Melse-Rivette and Paul (Debbie) Melse; grandchildren, Eric (Kally) Melse, Brittney Melse and Taylor Rivette; and great grandchildren, Olivia, Aubrey and Vivian Melse.  A special thank you to her friends and caregivers at Boulder Creek Assisted Living and Kindred Hospice of Grand Rapids.  A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, March 3, 2019 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, Pfeiffer Room, 1000 East Beltline Ave., Grand Rapids, MI 49525. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Kindred Hospice, 625 Kenmoor Ave. SE #115, Grand Rapids, MI 49546.