BIANCONE, Melissa Anne

Today's News-Herald, Lake Havasu City, AZ >>> Published on Sunday, October 22, 2017 <<< >>> Sept. 20, 1950 - Oct. 5, 2017 <<< Melissa passed away at her home in Lake Havasu City, Ariz. She was born in Portland to Kenneth and Mahalia Bradford. Melissa was adventurous and outgoing. She liked to tell the story of when she was in her early 20s, she and a friend left Oregon and traveled to Reno, Nev. by hitching rides. Once in Reno, she gained employment as a card dealer. She met and married Micah Sandwick when she was 21. They had three children together and the marriage lasted for 23 years. She later met and married Charles Biancone. They spent many years together before his untimely death in 2009. In her later life, Melissa was known for her love of golf and cooking. She also enjoyed her many grandchildren. Her first grandchild was Kyle Sandwick. She was so happy to get to reconnect with him in recent years after missing part of his early life. Melissa is survived by her two brothers, Jim and Billy (William) Bradford; mother, Mahalia; children, Rachel, Bethany and Ryan Sandwick; stepchildren, Tami Biancone and Tory Engelgau; first husband, Micah; countless grandchildren; nieces and nephews. Melissas ashes will be spread at Lake Havasu and Lake Merwin. She wanted to travel back to Lake Merwin before she passed. A celebration of life will be planned in the near future.