Melody Ruth Chung

1954 - 2011

Melody Ruth Chung obituary, 1954-2011, Orleans, MA

FUNERAL HOME

Nickerson Funeral Home

77 Eldredge Park Way

Orleans, Massachusetts

Melody Chung Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Dec. 1, 2011.

Melody Ruth Chung, 56, of Orleans, MA, died on November 28, 2011. Born on December 13, 1954, in Burlington, VT, she was the daughter of Mr. Jim and Joyce Chung.
After graduating from Burlington High School, Melody worked at the University of Vermont as a Library Assistant overseeing Gift Records. She later moved to Cape Cod, Orleans, MA where she earned her Associates Degree at Cape Cod Community College.
Melody loved life, counted her blessings and valued the treasures that were free and that truly signified wealth. Lovingly, with positive thinking and creativity she put her perfectionism, spirit and love into her family and everything she did.
To her son Bobby, she was a devoted mother, teacher and a friend. They shared many laughs and adventures traveling up north. Melody was a teacher providing guidance for any situation even when the situation seemed that there was no guidance to give. She taught him many things in life from cooking to wood working and was a true inspiration to him. Melody loved her son very much.
Melody had many creative sides to her and showed it through all her projects and the many beautiful gifts given to the family. She was everything from an artist, chef, carpenter, seamstress, crafter in needlework, stained glass maker, gymnast, dancer, musician and even taught swimming. She created beautiful needle point works that hang in her family's homes. Melody was and expert craftswoman making stained glass lamps, windows and mirrors. Her carpentry skills were put to work fixing up the family camp with her mother. She created holiday cooking extravaganzas that were enjoyed by everyone. Melody was known as the "Queen of Leftovers" due to her imaginary culinary talents. To her nieces and nephews she was a teacher teaching them to swim, ski, cook and enjoy life.
Melody was a very loving and giving person and would do anything for anybody and help in any way she could and never asked for anything in return. Melody was amazing, strong willed and always looked at the positive in every situation. Melody was truly loved and appreciated by everyone and will be missed very much.
Melody is survived by her son, Bobby Newton from Rhode Island; mother, Joyce Chung of Orleans, MA; brother, WaLun Wong, of Orleans, MA; sisters; Minnie Chung of Manchester, NH, Lida Yuen of Orleans, MA, Kim Warren of Bennington, VT; and several nieces and nephews.
Friends may call from 11 am to 1 pm on Saturday, December 3, 2011 at the Nickerson Funeral Home, 77 Eldredge Park Way in Orleans, MA.
A funeral service will follow the calling hours at 1 pm at the funeral home with The Reverend Canon Charles Morris, officiating.
Burial will be private at a later date.
Flowers are welcome or donations in Melody's memory may be made to The March of Dimes Foundation, The Lupus Foundation of America or The National Kidney Foundation.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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December 10, 2011

Stephanie Woo

Melody,

Although I didn't know you well, I can see the tremendous affect you had on your family. Your love, kindness and support touched all who knew you. The world is a sadder place for it has lost a shining star. The angel that was put on this Earth has left us too soon! You'll be sadly missed!

Rest in peace.

Love,
Tim, Stephanie and family

December 9, 2011

Oeiyin Yuen

Aunt Melody,

What can I say...except you left us too soon. In your short life, you accomplished so much. It was not only what you accomplished in life that will be remembered but also what a kind hearted, generous, positive and amazing spirit you had.

You looked after all of us nieces and nephews as if we were your own childeren. You supported us in everything we did, helped us with all of our projects, gave us advice and listened when we needed you to.

I want to thank you for all you have done for me and everyone. I also want to thank you for all you have taught me in life. Most importantly, I want to thank you for loving and supporting me. You will always hold a special place in all of our hearts. See you on our next journey in life.

I love you and miss you very much,
Oeiyin

December 9, 2011

Minnie Chung

Melody,

I'm so overwhelmed with emotion trying to write this. There are so many pictures of you flashing in my mind: from a child climbing up the Mary Fletcher hill in Vermont when we went sledding, to the beautiful woman you turned out to be. You faced life with courage and faith, compassion for others, a positive attitude, and that radiant smile, determined to live each moment to its fullest. You may have had a gentle spirit but you could also be very protective of those you loved.

When I close my eyes I can visualize all kinds of art work and books in your room: philosophy, psychology, alternative medicine, gardening, human anatomy, biology and others.

I think you had too many philosophy and psychology books because the analysis generated some great debates. We didn't always come to the same conclusion but many of the conversations ended in peals of laughter.

I loved the hours we spent sharing information and experiences with alternative medicine, acupressure, energy healing, and meditation.

In the garden, you had a green thumb, the plants in my gardens just reached out to hug you when you came to visit. I can see you fussing with Mom's plants and the special attention you gave to Tama's.

For help with artistic and structural design of craft projects, you were always there to offer suggestions and help to others. Your drawings and craft projects were a compliment to your skills, requiring attention to the smallest detail and an abundance of patience.

As an accomplished cook, the food you prepared was a delight but following your recipes was a challenge. I couldn't figure out why my dishes, remember the faccioa bread, never tasted like yours. After reviewing the ingredients, you laughingly told me how to correct the recipe. You said that sometimes you modified the ingredients as you were creating the "master piece" but didn't always make the notation on the recipe card. Your tools were sight, touch, smell, and taste with a pinch of this or that thrown in and the magical ingredient of imagination.

I know there were painful days when it would have been easier to lie in bed and have someone take care of you but you had that independent spirit. Even on those days you'd engage in small tasks around the house and try to do something to make another person's day brighter. Your efforts didn't go unnoticed. I thank you for the care you gave Dad and the "tender loving care" you gave Mom.

I'm so glad you joined us this autumn to "walk" in the hills of Vermont and enjoy the foliage. There's a feeling of peace and home in those mountains. Bill, Mom and I will cherish those memories.

I was blessed to have such a wonderful loving sister.

Rest in peace.

I love you.

I'll really miss you.

With love,

Your sister Minnie and Bill

Posted by Minnie Chung

December 9, 2011

Matthew Warren

Melody was a warm and caring person. She always wanted to please others, especially with her cooking. Mel never complained about her own troubles. I will always miss her warm and optimistic personality. I will miss the outstanding dishes she spent hours preparing. God bless you Mel and rest in peace, for you are loved.

December 9, 2011

Michelle Mark

Melody,

You are an incredible person, loved by many family and friends. Thank you for all of your tender loving care you have given through out the years. You have been an inspiration and touched our lives with your positive views, selflessness, creativity and generosity which will remain with us for years to come.

I always looked forward to seeing your welcoming and warm smile. I enjoyed our conversations as you were always considerate and thoughtful. I am eternally grateful for your kindness. I thank you from the bottom of my soul for reminded me to consistently view the cup as half full. I will remember all of the delicious dishes you prepared when we came to visit. It's hard to say which one was my favorite but you had a special touch when it came to your oatmeal cookies.

We were blessed to have you in our lives and will miss you dearly. May you rest in peace.

Love,
Michelle

December 7, 2011

Kim Warren

Melody

Thank you for being not only a caring sister but also a best friend who I could always talk to, confide in and rely on.
I feel so fortunate to have shared so many wonderful experiences together thru out your whole short life.
You inspired me with your compassion, positive outlook, knowledge, and always seeing the beauty of the world.
I smile thinking of how opposite we are and how we laughed about your perfection while doing anything and me just wanting to get it completed.
Your conversations, company and smile are sorely missed. I miss coming home and not seeing your Melody touches around the house.
All should learn from your humility as you were always doing for others from the goodness of your heart with out ever expecting any thing in return.
Rest in peace dear Melody.

Love Always
Your sister, Kim

December 6, 2011

Mel (Melody) Barkley

TO all of Melody's family and friends: I did not know your Melody, but from all of the tributes and memories shared here, she certainly was a wonderful woman; kind, caring, thoughtful and genuine. I, too, am Melody, born on Dec 13, 1955 (just a year later) and also from Cape Cod. I wanted to send my deepest condolensences to all of you who knew and loved her so much. I wish you all peace and love.

December 6, 2011

Chan Family

After reading all the loving messages here, it was so difficult not to be overwhelmed with sadness and sorrow. These heart-felt messages from Melody's friends and family are a testimony of a kind of person Melody was.

A good, caring, loving, and selfless person has left us.
A loving mother, sister, aunt, and friend have left us.
Our memories of Melody have not left us. These memories will help us fill some of the emptiness left by her passing. These memories will remain forever.

Rest in Peace Melody.

With deep sadness,
Peter, Susan, and Lauren Chan

December 5, 2011

The Lee Family

Mel,

We are all very saddened by your departure, but we will continue to remember the wonderful times we had with you when we visited the Cape. You were always so generous, welcoming, and considerate.

You always found the time to stop by the Yuens' to say hello, and you thoughtfully brought gifts for the girls; we were thankful for your sweet gestures each time, and still are. Spending time at Grandma Joyce's and catching up with you over luncheons was something that we looked forward to during our visits. Macaroni salad and oatmeal cookies with papaya will always remind us of you, and our family still raves about your creative and yummy recipes.

We love your kind and caring spirit, and you'll be in our hearts and memories forever. You're in a better place now, may you rest in peace.

Love,
Ray, Sandra, Nicole and Stephanie Lee

December 5, 2011

Vivian Fay (Hopper)

Beautiful Melody... it's been a long time. Reading about you from your family and friends reminds me of what a truely beautiful soul you are. Every memory of you comes with that big beautiful smile of yours, and kindness. When I think of you, I think big white furry boots (back in style now!!) on our treks up Church St after school, and our gross choice of french fries and gravy with cheesecake and grape soda at no other than Woolworths! Rest in peace, my friend. I love you, Mel. We'll catch up some day. To the Chung Family - my deepest sympathy. Hi Lida... so sorry.

December 5, 2011

Kathy Mitchell Beach

I am truly sorry to hear of Melody's passing. I remember the last time Mel came up to Burlington to visit and go to my 20th H.S. reunion. We always had so much fun. I loved her gentle ways, her soft voice and her beautiful smile. Rest in peace, Melody. My deepest condolences to Bobby, Mrs. Chung, Minnie, WaLun, Lida, Kim and all of her family and friends.

December 5, 2011

Katelyn Husser

Mel held a special presense in so many people's lives, including mine. She has taught us all to be grateful for the good in life, the value of patience, and she displayed kindness that never went unnoticed. Whether it was by treking to our tennis matches or making us a late night snack, Mel was always there to support us. She never judged us or showed any signs of frustration, even though I'm sure we gave her plenty of ammo. She holds a place in many of my memories of home and she will never be forgotten. Thank for everything Mel. May you be at peace.

December 5, 2011

My rides to Soccer games and tennis matches our cherished memories. I can't even count the times Kim, Mel and I got our Dunkin Dounuts, hopped in the car and enjoyed a good visit. Mel's support for the girls was endless.... if she wasn't riding to a game or helping Kim and I with our many committees she was cooking some treats, I was often jealous to hear I missed some of the meals and treats she made. It was our pleasure to have had Mel in our life Her love and support for the girls will never be forgotten Thank You Mel Our thoughts and prayers are with you all

Angela and Tom Husser Bennington, Vt

December 4, 2011

Way Yuen

Aunt Melody,
you know i'm plain spoken. thanks for the deep conversations about god and history and the soul of man. wish you didn't have to go so soon. love you lots.

December 4, 2011

SuiYin Yuen

Aunt Mel,

You were such a creative, compassionate and loving person. I really admire your positive outlook on life and your gigantic heart. You are the most generous kind hearted person I know.

I want to thank you for the many wonderful memories and the love and support you have given me through out the years. I cherish the time we sent together talking, doing projects, and cooking.

It really meant a lot to me that you were able to make it to all of my school events from award nights to art shows. Your support will never be forgotten.

Thanks for everything you have taught me in life. I will miss you very much. I love you.

Love,
SuiYin

December 4, 2011

Rocco and Jan Montesano

To Melody's Family,
Wishing for you...
the comfort of God's love,
the strength of family support,
the blessings of friendship.

With Deepest Sympathy,
Jan and Rocco Montesano

December 4, 2011

HoYin Yuen

Aunt Melody,

You are a selfless, patient human being, who always is positive and optimistic. You always do for others and do so with a smile on your face.

In an attempt to follow your lead through the way you lived your life and keeping things light I will attempt to do the same - I am reminded of a project that we did together. One of many. It was the Parthenon for my freshman history class. I remember at each part of the project thinking that I was done, but you had additional parts that you thought needed to be added to complete the project. It was not just the building, you added the columns, the fresco, the two side buildings, the bushes, the sand and the paint. You always kept pushing for more. You are both tenacious, and a perfectionist in everything you do. It is much appreciated, not only because you did most of my project for me and I received and A (thanks for that), but you instilled an important work ethic in me that I use today.

Thanks for everything
With much love
HoYin

December 4, 2011

Eric Warren

Auntie Mel,

You have always been an inspiration to me, maintaining a positive outlook on life despite adversity. Your values will live on as reminder to cherish all that you have, keep a smile on your face, and care for those whom you love.

I have always admired your attention to detail in all aspects of life. Once a task is chosen, you persist until the result is perfect. A dedication to perfection separates the ordinary from the extraordinary. When in the kitchen, I ask myself, does this dish meet Mel's standards?

Your support was present in many aspects of my life. You always had the time to sit down and talk, regardless of the subject. You would trek up icy slopes, dressed in multiple layer of down, to watch a snowboard event. Your support is limitless and is very much appreciated.

I love you Mel. We will meet again, sleep well.

December 4, 2011

Dan Warren

Mel has always been one of the most giving and gentle people I have known. My thoughts are with your family at this difficult time. Mel will be missed greatly.

December 3, 2011

Wes Warren

Aunt Mel had many unassuming talents. During a conversation she made a real effort to listen. She chose her words carefully and was mindful of people's feelings, because she was a person that really feels.

That special kind of empathy can only come from a life lived, one that's full of beauty, hardship, laughter and love. Melody's story will remind us of altruism and encourage us to be thoughtful.

See you on the other side, love Wes

December 3, 2011

Samantha Warren

It is difficult to explain what a selfless person Mel was. You would never hear her complain, though she wasn't without her share of reasons to.

I have a vague recollection of one of our many trips from the Cape to Vermont when I was a little girl: Bobby and I were in the back of Mel's old red Corolla, with its gray seats and a smell reminiscent of the sleeping bag that Mel always had handy. Bobby and I had dug to the bottom of the toy pouch that hung from the back of the driver's seat, outdone ourselves playing cards and reading ghost stories from a beat up copy of Goosebumps. Mel told us to lock our doors, though she left hers unlocked. When I asked her why, she said it was in case we got into an accident that damaged the doors, she could get out to help us. I remember thinking how amazing it was that Mel would rather leave her door unlocked – which was apparently such a perilous thing – to help us. Though she was more likely worried that our roughhousing would end up with someone falling out of the backseat, I was thankful for my auntie who loved me enough to jeopardize her own safety in case of an accident. As if Mel's driving could have ever presented a dangerous situation.

I will miss Mel dearly. She was always such a presence in my life, bringing warmth to family events and subtly contributing to marked personal occasions. Mel was there to make a fort on the living room trampoline. She was there to sit through hours of piano recitals just to hear me play one song, which was more often than not botched under pressure. She was there to make decorations for my high school prom and had delicious goodies and a welcoming hug waiting when I came home from college break.

Thank you for everything that you did and for the beautiful person you were, Melody. I love you and will always cherish your memory.

December 3, 2011

Lida Yuen

Melody

We had our fun wild crazy times (partying). We had our hard times. But we always loved each others. Hope that you are up there with Tama. Not in pain, having fun. When I get there we'll have to party like we did in college.

Love,
Your sister Lida

December 3, 2011

Gary Warren

Melody was a very caring and supportive presence in our lives for many years. She was a warm and welcomed part of our family. Her willingness to help in any way she could, her culinary delights, and her smile will be dearly missed. She optimized how someone dealing with adversity, without complaint, always showed concern for others. What a humble example of selflessness she set for our children as they grew. I have learned much from her and will miss our thoughtful discussions. It is with great sadness that we bid her farewell, a true friend and loving influence in our lives. Thanks for all you have done and being a such joy to our family.

December 3, 2011

Kara Wong

Dear Aunt Mel,

I want to thank you for everything you have done for me over the years. You've always been so positive and supportive no matter the circumstances. I will truly miss your bright smile and laugh. You were always able to find something positive in all situations and I admire you for that. I am glad we had the chance to share so many memories from my childhood. You were always at every school event and encouraged me to stay creative and strive to do well. I thank you so much for everything that you have taught me and for all of the love you had to give. You will be greatly missed and I will cherish the times we spent together.

Love you always,
Kara

December 3, 2011

Barbara

Melody always had a smile and a kind word- she will be missed by all.
She was blessed to have a loving family; strong and adoring mother,son, brother, sisters, nephews and nieces may you find comfort in knowing she is at peace. With my deepest sympathies and love forever and beyond.

December 2, 2011

Molody is in her last journey! And she will be taken care of by God now. We are sorry for her untimely loss. We pray that her soul rest in peace. In this difficult time, we would like to express our deepest condolence to the entire family. – Double Dragon Employees Family

December 2, 2011

Melody, till we all meet again - Rest in peace knowing how much your family loves you, and us knowing how much you loved us.

Love, your brother,

WaLun

December 2, 2011

We are sorry for the loss of beautiful Melody. We will fondly remember Mel with her bright smile and kind words. She was a sweet, gentle person. Please accept our deepest sympathies.

The Fongs

December 2, 2011

Marcia Randall

To Way,


I now understand the depth of our brief conversation we had today. Coincidentally I came home tonight and happened to read your Aunt Melody's obituary in the paper. She seemd full of life and a very giving person with many talents. She died at a young age. I'm sure her loss will leave a huge void in your family, but it seems she has filled your lives with many loving experiences and memories. My thoughts are with you and all your family. Thanks for sharing your thoughts today.

Fondly,

Marcia

December 2, 2011

Marie LaPenta

I am so sorry to here of Mel's death. I will remember her sweetness and gentle spirit during her visits to Bennington. She endured those long rides to soccer games and even sat to watch them in some pretty dismal weather. Her cooking was always a treat for us. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.

December 2, 2011

Susan Hendy

My deepest sympathy to Melody's family.

December 2, 2011

Jacob Ross

My condolence and deepest sympathy to Melody's family and friends.

December 2, 2011

Mary Hand

We were so fortunate to know Melody; she was a truly lovely and loving person. You are all in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time; please call on us for anything.
Love, Mary & Drinnon

December 2, 2011

Ken & Rose Ann Bushey

We are saddened to hear about your loss. Melody was a warm and loving person. Our hearts go out to you in your time of sorrow.
Love, Kenny & Rose Ann

December 2, 2011

Helen and Jake Rugg

Mel was a kind and gentle soul and will be sorely missed. Our thoughts go out to Kim and Joyce and the entire Chung family during these sad days.

December 2, 2011

Jenn

Melody was virtuous, smart, funny, and guiding. Melody was like a second mother to me. Always there when you were in need, always had answers to questions you thought you could never answer, A devoted mother, sister, aunt, cousin, friend.
She overcame every obstacle with such a positive outlook, she taught me how to always take the good from the bad, nothing held her back. Melody will be sorely missed. I will never forget the fun we had together and everything she taught me...

December 2, 2011

Bobby

The best mom in the world. I don't know where I would be without her love and guidance. She was always there to help me, or anyone that needed it. I've never known anyone with such a pure and loving heart, totally devoted to those she loved and cared about. As a single parent she had to teach me the things a father would teach his son. I don't think any father could have done as good a job as she did. No matter if it was anything from cooking to woodworking. I knew she would have the answers. Traveling with her are some of the best memories of my life. She and I loved to go up north together, the little general stores like Sylvesters, the small family owned places like the Belfry, we even tried to stay the night at the camp once. We laughed about it after when we went back to Jay Peak when we realized we couldn't use the furnace for a fire. I will always remember her as happy and content as she was on those trips with me....

December 2, 2011

Debbie & Paul Smith

To Lida and family I am so sorry that I am not there with you at a time in need. I am there in spirit and thinking about you and your family, I am here if you need anything. Very sorry for your loss.
Love, Paul & Debbie

December 2, 2011

TO MY BEST FRIEND. You were then you are now and will always be my best friend.
Where ever your journey may take you i will always be your best friend.
love Janet

December 2, 2011

Cristalee McSwweeney

Sending your family love and light to keep Melody's memory alive. She was a very dear friend to my mother - a true life long friend. She will be very missed!

December 1, 2011

Melody was a beautiful person inside and out.
I love you and will miss you my dear sister-in-law. ---jfw

December 1, 2011

The Staff of Nickerson Funeral Home

We wish to extend our deepest sympathies at this difficult time.

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