Melisa Colleen Gillen

Born on July 14, 1969, in Omaha, Nebraska, Melisa was the daughter of Edward and Dorothy Gillen, who preceded her in death. She grew up in Bellevue, Nebraska, where she attended St. Bernadette Grade School and Daniel J. Gross High School. Melisa continued her education at the University of Nebraska Omaha and the University of Missouri–Kansas City, earning degrees that reflected her dedication to learning and professional growth.

Melisa built a successful career in administration and marketing, holding advancing roles with several respected engineering and architecture firms, including Henderson Engineering, Wallace Engineering, and Gould Evans Architects. Her professionalism, creativity, and collaborative nature earned the admiration of colleagues and clients alike.

Beyond her career, Melisa was known for her kind heart, quiet strength, and generous spirit. She had a deep love for her two cats, George and Gracie, and found great joy in traveling abroad—especially when visiting dear friends in the United Kingdom.

Melisa will be lovingly remembered by her brother, Michael Bartnik, and his wife Dianna; her sister, Michele Thornhill, and her husband Mike; her niece Maddie Thornhill; her nephew and Godson Zach Thornhill; her niece Caylee Thornhill and many extended family members and friends who will miss her deeply.

A Rosary will be prayed at 5:45 p.m. on Thursday, October 23 at McGilley State Line Chapel, followed by a visitation from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, October 24. Burial will follow in Omaha, Nebraska at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to KC Pet Project, honoring Melisa’s lifelong love for animals.