Mrs. Melinda E. (Ward) Santiago

Mrs. Melinda E. (Ward) Santiago, age 53, of Sauquoit, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, March 10, 2011 at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center with her loving family by her side. Born in Herkimer on November 3, 1957, Melinda was the daughter of the late Earl and Amy (Marriott) Ward. She was raised and educated in Utica. On March 14, 1986 she married Rene “Cano” Santiago with whom she shared 25 years; they were blessed with a loving relationship filled with many good memories. Melinda demonstrated proficiency and pride in her work as a nurse’s aide at the former Hunter House. At home, she was a happy, giving person who loved the company of family, friends, and especially children. She was light-hearted, humorous, friendly, and kind. She saw the good in others, and she was an understanding listener. She will be remembered by her family as an exquisite cook, notably for her delicious lasagna. During her spare time she enjoyed crocheting, playing dominoes and cards, and solving word searches. She held in her heart a strong faith in God. Melinda is survived by her husband Rene “Cano”; “her special children”, Shaniya, Ciara, Emmanni, Arianna, Adonis, and Larry; and her special friends, Kenda, and Mary and her very special "sister" Providence "Provi" Vega. In addition, she leaves her sisters and brothers-in-law, Marjorie Ward, Elizabeth and Bernie Rodd, Levinia Ward and Peter Thomas, Florence Ward and Jim Weller, Brenda and Jose Velazquez, and Toni and Franklin Velazquez; her brother, Earl Ward; her nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, many aunts and uncles; and her in-laws, Santina Sierra-Velazquez, Carmen M. Santiago, Felicita Santiago, Vigerminda “Tata” and Napolean Rivera, Israel Santiago, Venerada “Venny” and Humberto Garcia, Andrea and Felix Roman, Alejandro “Alex” and Janette Santiago, and Margarita and Moses Singertan. She was predeceased by her brothers, Eric Ward, and Eugene Ward. The family offers their deepest appreciation to the Sauquoit Fire & Rescue, Edwards Ambulance, and the staff of the St. Elizabeth Medical Center Emergency Room. Also, special thanks to her caregivers, Danielle, Phyllis, and Linda from U.S. Care. Visitation will be held Sunday from 12:00 noon – 1:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Melinda’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Sunday afternoon at 1:00 at the funeral home immediately upon conclusion of visitation. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Mrs. Melinda E. (Ward) Santiago

November 3, 1957 - March 10, 2011