Melissa Jane Ward, 70, passed away on Monday, June 26, 2023, at the Weston County Manor after a long battle with Alzheimer's.

Melissa was born April 17, 1953, in Cheyenne, Wyoming. She spent her early years in Newcastle, WY and then our family moved to Grand Junction, Colorado and then on to the west coast. Melissa graduated from high school in Sutherland, Oregon.

Shortly after graduation, Melissa joined the United States Army proudly serving her country for four years. She was stationed in Brussels, Belgium at NATO Headquarters as part of the communications team. Melissa was transferred back to state side shortly before her discharge.

After the army Melissa enrolled at Western States Chiropractic College and earned her doctorate degree with honors. She practiced for many years in the state of Oregon. In the early 90's she relocated back to Newcastle to be near our family. Melissa had hurt her back and was unable to practice as a chiropractor, but she did work as a massage therapist. She also at one time owned the Wild Hare Bookstore in Newcastle.

Melissa was preceded in death by her parents, brothers, sisters, aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews, and several cousins.

Grateful for having shared her life are her sisters, brothers, nieces and nephews, and cousins by the dozens.

A memorial service will be held on July 10, 2023, at 2:00 pm at the Weston County Senior Center.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Weston County Humane Society, PO Box 744, Newcastle, Wyoming 82701.