January 8, 2013
Melinda G. Tom

1967 – 2013

On Jan. 5, our beloved Melinda departed this life after a courageous battle with a serious illness. She spent her final days surrounded by all of the people she loved. Melinda Gaylene Fischer was born on May 23, 1967 to parents Galen Fischer and Barbara Bonnette in Tooele, where she was a lifelong resident. She married twice, first to William Smith in 1981 and later to David Tom in 2001, with whom she spent the remaining years of her life. She gave birth to three wonderful children: Addam, Angelleque and Kasi. In her youth, Melinda was a renowned mischief-maker around Tooele. More often than not she was accompanied by her brothers, sisters and cousins, who were also her best friends. As young adults, they remained close and shared the joys of raising their children with many parties, camping trips and holidays together. Melinda had a uniquely strong relationship with her nieces and nephews, many of whom affectionately knew her as Aunt Nan. In later years, Melinda would endure some tough times before meeting the love of her life, David. With the help of his love and support, she was able to overcome many obstacles and focus on her relationships with her children and grandson Taylor, who brought so much joy into her life even as her health began to decline. Thanks to the efforts of her care team at the University of Utah Hospital, we were able to share in the gift of an additional year together. During this time Melinda was able to attend her daughter’s wedding, spend one last Christmas with her loved ones and spoil her grandson at every opportunity. She also found her spiritual calling with the Christian Fellowship. Melinda will be best remembered for the unbreakable bonds she forged with her family. Much like her mother Barbara, she had a charitable heart and was very protective of those she held dear. Her spirit will live on in our hearts forever. Melinda is survived by husband David Tom, children Addam Smith (Myka), Angie Troyner (Sean) and Kasi Chatburn (Tim), grandson Taylor Troyner, mother Barbara Bonnette, siblings Terri Dew (Randy), Stephanie Orr (Dustin), Steven Bonnette and Rick Bonnette, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by grandmother Lorraine Ross, father Galen, and cousins Dan Dennison and Tom Ellevold. A public visitation will be held Jan. 9 from 6 to 8 p.m. with services on Jan. 10 at 11 a.m. Both events will take place at St. Barnabas’ Episcopal Church, 1784 N. Aaron Drive in Tooele. Interment will be at Tooele City Cemetery. Arrangements in care of Dalton-Hoopes Funeral Parlor.