Melissa Mayrath Wagner, age 60, passed away on December 18, 2018. She was the youngest of 4 daughters of Robert and Twyla Mayrath of Dodge City, Kansas. She was a resident of Colorado Springs for over 15 years.
Melissa was an exceptional silversmith and jeweler. She was well loved by her students at Bemis School of Art, where she was an instructor. She challenged herself and excelled at many art forms including glass making, painting, calligraphy, quilting, and was an accomplished seamstress. Melissa’s passion, discipline and heart made her every endeavor a labor of love.
Melissa loved all animals, her favorites being rabbits and the “wild” donkey herd of Cripple Creek.
She is survived by her loving husband, Ken, and her 3 sisters: Sharon, Nicki and Noel.
A memorial service will take place Friday, January 4, 2019 at 2pm at Shrine of Remembrance “America the Beautiful” Chapel, 1730 E. Fountain Blvd., Colorado Springs, CO 80910.
Memorials in Melissa’s name may be made to the “Two Mile High Club” P.O. Box 306, Cripple Creek, CO 80813, the organization that cares for the donkeys of Cripple Creek. Facebook: Two Mile High Club.
FJ
31 Dec 2018Sorry for the loss of your dear loved one. Know that caring thoughts are with you. Know that God has promised to “swallow up death forever”- Isaiah 25:8, and that “he will resurrect our dear loved ones who have passed away”- John 5:28. To learn more please go to Jw.org and search comfort.
Barbara Niven
1 Jan 2019My deepest sympathy. I was a student of Melissa’s at Bemis in her jewelry classes. She was a incredible artist and instructor, and I will miss her. I always watched for her name in the class catalogue. Please accept my condolences on Melissa’s passing.
Joy Fuqua
1 Jan 2019Missy will be missed. So many wonderful memories with all the family. Prayers to all of you.
Joy (Frauen) Fuqua and Brad Fuqua
Denise Simon
1 Jan 2019Missy, I am so glad we reconnected and got to share stories at our 40-year Class Reunion. Until we meet again sweet friend. Denise
Juanita Canzoneri
2 Jan 2019Although I had not seen Melissa for several years I remember her with great fondness. She was great fun to hang out with at Commonwheel, Bemis, or various art events. I looked forward to seeing the new directions in her artwork and love her greatly.
So sorry for your loss, Ken. I wish I had done more to keep in touch.
Alyson
2 Jan 2019Melissa was a truly special person and I liked her the moment I met her. I found her to be the type of person who is genuine, real, loyal, and speaks the truth (with compassion). She was also very generous with her gifts and talents. Melissa took the time to teach one of my sons who is interested in jewelry making. She will be missed terribly. It is rare to find such a true friend.
Jon Genier
3 Jan 2019My condolences to your family. May the promise found at Revelation 21:3-4 give you some comfort for your great loss.
Karen Anderson
3 Jan 2019My sister and I took classes from Melissa at Bemis. We were so sadden by the loss of this truly talented lady. She was kind, funny and a wealth of knowledge. My sister and I will truly miss seeing her around. My deepest sympathy and regards to Melissa’s family and her husband Ken.
Linda Sagastume
4 Jan 2019Melissa was a talented artist and compassionate friend. Her smile lit up the room and her laugh was contagious. We will miss your presence around Bemis and I will always treasure the piece of jewelry she gave me as a “thank you”. See you in the heavenlies, your halo will be so well adorned!