Melissa Rene Garduno

Melissa Rene Garduno born June 23, 1970 entered into eternal rest on December 12, 2025 at age 55. Melissa was born in Aurora, CO and was a resident of Brighton, CO at the time of her passing. Melissa is survived by her mother, Rosa Masterson, her daughter, Heike Garduno, her sister, Rosa Lee Schneider and her niece, Taylor Renee Schneider. She was preceded in death by her father, William Joel Masterson, Jr.

Melissa dedicated her life to her daughter, Heike. They both shared a love of animals and rescuing them. Melissa loved horses and shared that love with Heike. Heike still has the eight horses they have rescued; Maverick, Kit Kat, Sundance, Outlaw, Rainy, Naomi, Pandora, and Phoenix. Heike was heavily involved in Westernaires and Melissa took her everywhere to follow that passion. Heike was in many parades and shows and Melissa loved watching her perform. Melissa loved Christmas time and driving around with Heike to see the Christmas lights and decorations. Melissa also loved motorcycles. Her prized motorcycle was a German Valkyrie Rune, which won several best in shows. She loved riding and Heike would often go with her in a side car on one of her motorcycles.

Melissa worked at the United States Postal Service (USPS) for almost 30 years. She was a machine operator in the Commerce City USPS Distribution Center.

Melissa will be remembered for her generous heart, her dedication to her daughter, her stubbornness, and her strength and resilience to the very end. She was one tough woman. Her life on this earth ended too soon.

Melissa will be cremated. There will be no services at this time. Her family is planning a celebration of life and a motorcycle run in the summer near her birthday.