Melissa Beth Mendelson, 44 years of age, of Norwood, formerly of Sharon passed away on March 6, 2021 after a valiant battle with cancer. Devoted and loving daughter of Stephen Mendelson and Janice (Dunay) Mendelson of Mashpee. Cherished and loving sister of Lindsay Mendelson of Norwood and Jennifer Sawan and husband David of Sharon, and adoring Auntie Melissy of Olivia, Ben and Mason Sawan. She was blessed with the love and support of her Aunt Phyllis and Uncle Paul Zalvan and Aunt Sheryl and Uncle David Elman. She’s lovingly remembered and honored by her many professional colleagues and friends but one in particular, Dan Allman, Melissa’s childhood friend who mourns her loss along with the rest of her family.
Melissa had three loves of her life, that brought her great joy and contentment:
Her family, her job as an ophthalmic technician at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and her loyalty and appreciation of Howard Stern and his show. In fact, on August 19,2020 she was interviewed by Howard Stern live on his program for 40 minutes. It was a thrill of a lifetime, and despite his reputation, Howard was gentle and compassionate and kind to his number one fan.
Melissa’s dedication to her job was recognized by her ophthalmology team and co-workers. She loved getting up and out to be the first one into work to set up for the day ahead. She was thorough, kind and pleasant with her patients, always sweet and intellectually curious and filled with a positive, gentle disposition with her co-workers. She was so proud of the recognition she received from the physicians she served. Many times they would let her know how impressed they were with her knowledge and when they would place on her office door a note saying “You’re a genius!” or “Great Catch! I don’t know if I would have found that!” she would proudly let us know of that recognition. She gloried in her professional knowledge base. Her last day of work before she entered the medical vortex and struggles, her boss told her “It’s been an honor working with you Melissa—Good Luck!
Once the battle began Melissa had the strength and endurance of a determined warrior. She had a Dream Team of physicians and specialized therapists led by her magnificent surgeon Dr. Donald Annino and the guiding light of her healing, the brilliant and esteemed oncologist Dr. Glenn Hanna. They were all working to stop the spread of the cancer and keep her hopeful and pain free. We could not omit the beloved VNA Kate Dunn who was Melissa’s ferocious advocate and who wept with us the day that her battle was lost.
Melissa lived a life of sweetness, kindness, hard work and contentment. Her life was cut short, but each day was spent surrounded by those who loved her most, and respected her work ethic and sense of fun and pride in Judaism. She will be forever in our hearts and always beloved.
Due to the COVID-19 crisis, services are private. Sharing written remembrances and condolences during this time will be essential in helping the Mendelson family reminisce, celebrate, and heal. Visit www.torffuneralservice.com for guestbook. In lieu of flowers donations in Melissa’s memory may be made to Dana Farber Cancer Institute-Dr. Glenn Hanna Research Fund In honor of Melissa Beth Mendelson Attn: Kelley McNamara 10 Brookline Place West, 6th floor, Brookline, MA 02445-7226