Melissa L. Vele, age 47 of Shawano, passed away on Wednesday, May 11, 2022, in Green Bay. Melissa was born in Chicago on March 24, 1975, the daughter of Thomas N. Tourtillott, Sr. and the late Linda Dodge. On September 4, 2010, Melissa was united in marriage to Randall D. Vele, who preceded her in death on June 2, 2012. Finding love again, her significant other, Alan Penass "Moon Dawg", who preceded her in death on October 9, 2020. Melissa was the BEST mom and grandma; not only to her biological family, but for many others as well, who knew her door was always open. She had a huge heart, caring for and supporting others, throughout her life, especially as a Head Start Early Childhood teacher, which she adored. Melissa always looked forward to decorating for the holidays. She was an avid Bears, Cubs and Brewer Fan and will be missed by all who knew her.

Melissa is survived by her children, Devawn-Bree (Awaehsaeh Olson) Salgado, Maniyanne Salgado, Sequoia Salgado, Meadow Salgado, Michael Salgado, Jr. Miranda Vele, Leila (Joe L.) Vele, and Lydi Dodge; children brought into Melissa's life by Alan, Raenell Penass, Renai (Shannon Tucker) Penass, Le'Chelle Penass; numerous grandchildren; and her father, Tommy Tourtillott, Sr. She is further survived by her siblings, Lauri (Dennis) Sanapaw, Danielle Dodge, Sheena L. Dodge, Britnee Dodge, Thomas Tourtillott, Jr., Brian Miller, Vivian Tourtillott, her best friend, Marla Brown; father of her children Michael Salgado, Sr., numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Randall; significant other, Alan; her mother, Linda; and her sister, Maniyanne Dodge, maternal grandparents, Franklin Dodge, Evangeline (Nunway) Garza, as well as aunts, uncles, and other family members.

Traditional services will be held on Saturday, May 14, 2022, at 3:00pm at the Sheena L. Dodge residence, N1524 Mallard Bay Trail in Keshena. Visitation will be held at the residence beginning at 6:00pm Thursday until the time of services. Family is requesting masks be worn for services.