Melissa Bales

Melissa Ann Bales of Bayfield, passed away January 13, 2018, she was 40 years old.

Melissa was a caregiver to all who crossed her path. She was greatly devoted to her family, and put every fiber of her being into securing the very best for her son, Eli. Nothing gave her more joy than showering Eli with love. She was an exceptionally engaged mother and happily fostered her son’s wonderful curiosity. She instilled him with values of kindness and respect, which she perfectly exemplified. Melissa modestly took a behind-the-scenes role for the countless occasions that she planned, and was often singlehandedly responsible for crafting the fun and beautiful experiences that everyone enjoyed. Her genuine investment in the happiness of others was deep-rooted and present at all times. When she had time for herself, Melissa would spend the day outside, playing with Eli, hiking, cross-country skiing, or tending to her garden. She was blessed with a deep sensitivity that enabled her to be exceedingly understanding toward others, both in her personal life and professional life. Melissa was solution-based and took the pain out of many situations for others by quickly working toward resolution. Her intelligence made her adept at diverse skills, and she excelled at adapting to new technology (and being patient with those who did not). She will forever be remembered as a remarkable person who gave and loved without reservation, and with more dimensions than could ever be encapsulated on paper.

Melissa is survived by her husband Brer, son Eli, mother Betty Anne Pinkney, siblings Fred Pinkney and Ronnie Sheafer, nieces Allie and Bailey, nephews Jacob and Levi, extended family and caring friends.

She is preceded in death by her father, Dell Pinkney.

A memorial service will be on Saturday, January 20, 2018 at 11am at the Church of Christ, 2011 Bayfield Parkway, Bayfield, CO. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Eli’s scholarship fund. Checks can be made out to “Scholar’s Choice -for the benefit of Eli Bales” and mailed to (or dropped off at) the Bank of Colorado Building in Durango: LPL c/o Bank of Colorado Building, ATTN: Jonathan Donnaway, 1199 Main Avenue, Durango, CO 81301.