Mrs. Melissa Marie "Mimi" (Bova) Rogers

UTICA/SPRING HILL, FL – Mrs. Melissa Marie “Mimi” (Bova) Rogers, age 56, began her spiritual journey to the Lord on Monday, April 21, 2025. Born in Utica on September 21, 1968, Melissa was the daughter of Lawrence N. “Larry” and Marie A. (Guarno) Bova. She was a graduate of John F. Kennedy High School/Class of 1987. Full of ambition, she went on to attend Endicott College and later completed her studies at the University of Phoenix, earning her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Business. Melissa dedicated her life to careers centered around assisting those in need. She once served as Chief Operating Officer of Feed Our Vets in Utica and was the proud founder and owner of Ascenseur Consulting Company. Her passion for service also led her to hold meaningful roles with the American Cancer Society and the Good News Center, where she continued to make a lasting impact in the lives of others. In addition to her professional roles, Melissa was deeply committed to community service. Each year, she devoted herself wholeheartedly to preparing for the annual Ride for Missing Children—an event that held deep personal significance for her. During her time with the American Cancer Society, Melissa went above and beyond her work responsibilities, selflessly volunteering her personal time to support walks, fundraisers, and other events. Melissa was a compassionate soul who supported people from all walks of life. Melissa’s happiness was truly contagious—she was rarely seen without a radiant smile. A true fashionista, she always took pride in her appearance, greeting each day and every task with confidence, style, and grace. Strong-willed and fiercely determined, Melissa possessed a quiet strength that often surprised those around her. She faced life’s challenges head-on, with courage, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to doing things the right way. She kept her personal endeavors private so that she could focus on guiding those around her. With a goal in her heart and a prayer on her lips, she was a force to be reckoned with. In her early years, Melissa especially cherished family trips to Brantingham Lake. She later spent time living in Germany—some of her most treasured memories were made there. Later in life, she found joy and peace living in sunny Florida, where she loved spending time on the beach, soaking in the beauty of the ocean and the warmth of the sun. Proud of her Catholic upbringing, Melissa was a devoted follower who consistently put God and her family at the center of her life. Her kindness, generosity, and unwavering faith touched everyone she met. Melissa felt very blessed to know the spiritual guidance of Pastor Bill Vallet. Melissa is survived by her only son, Sean Kehler - who came from a blessed union she once shared with Mitch Kehler - and his love Lindsey Parker; beloved parents, Larry and Marie; sister and brother-in-law, Jennifer and Bill Cromp and their family, Ivy “Poodles” Cromp and Alec Usyk, John Cromp, and Jim Cromp; loving husband, Jeffrey; honorary daughters, Andrea Galloway - with whom Melissa held a special bond - and her son Savage who will forever hold his “Miss Melissa” in his heart, Chrisandra Rogers, and Lily Rogers; and her feline companion and best friend, Princess Vanellope von Schweetz. She is additionally survived by her many cousins; in-laws, Gene and Ginger Kehler, and Rick and Elaine Wolfgang; and many treasured friendships, with special mention of her life-long friends, Denise Guzski and Dawn Edmiston. She was predeceased by her maternal grandmother, Helen (Galka) Guarno; and paternal grandfather, Floyd Bova. A Memorial Gathering in Melissa’s honor will take place on Monday, April 28, 2025, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Those unable to attend may be present virtually at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84402784134. In lieu of floral offerings, memorial contributions in Melissa’s honor may be made to the Good News Center online at https://thegoodnewscenter.org/support-our-mission; envelopes will also be available at the funeral home. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Melissa’s Memorial Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life, which will commence on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish, 684 Jay St., Utica. Those unable to attend may be present virtually at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85071741731.

Mrs. Melissa Marie "Mimi" (Bova) Rogers

September 21, 1968 - April 21, 2025