Melissa E. Kashella, 51, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away peacefully on May 17, 2023, while under the kind and compassionate care of Niagara Hospice House, after a hard-fought battle with cancer. Born on November 22, 1971, she was the daughter of Jennings and the late Lois (Knapp) Kashella, who sadly predeceased her in 2021.
Melissa graduated from LaSalle Senior High School in 1989 with a diploma in Horticulture. She was a longtime employee at Dress Barn, where she made many good friends with her coworkers and customers. She served as their assistant manager for several years until their closing.
Melissa was a member of the 4H Club and Order of Eastern Star Chapter 722. Melissa volunteered for the Lewiston Jazz Festival and loved 80’s music, with Prince being her favorite artist. She had a love for penguins, although she wasn’t a fan of other birds. Above all, Melissa enjoyed spending time with her family. She will remain in the hearts of her beloved family and friends who loved her dearly.
Melissa is survived by her adoring father, Jennings Kashella; her loving brother Jeffrey (Jennifer) Kashella; her beloved niece, Samantha Kashella, as well as many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Melissa cherished the role as the Godmother to sisters, Hannah Hrotko and Chloe Catanese, who are the children of her best friends, Lynne and Tony Catanese. She also is survived by many treasured friends, who also loved and treasured her.
Visitation with Melissa’s casket open will be held for family and friends on Saturday, May 20 from 3 – 4 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY, where Melissa’s casket will be closed and funeral services will begin at 4:30 PM. Following funeral services, family and friends are welcome to continue celebrating Melissa’s life at the funeral home until 7 PM. Memorial offerings may be made to Niagara Hospice House, 4675 Sunset Drive, Lockport, NY.SERVICES
Visitation
Saturday, May 20, 2023
3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel
2730 Military Road
Niagara Falls, NY 14304
Funeral Service
Saturday, May 20, 2023
4:30 PM
M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel
2730 Military Road
Niagara Falls, NY 14304
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