Melanie Ann Rosebrook

February 23, 1943 – January 12, 2026

Melanie Ann Rosebrook, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, teacher, and musician, passed away peacefully on January 12, 2026, in Portland, Oregon, at the age of 82.

Melanie was born on February 23, 1943, in Chehalis, Washington, to Gordon Wilcox and Margaret DeSpain. She spent her early years in Chehalis, where some of her fondest memories were made—playing with cousins, creating “rivers” in her father’s garden, and listening to her parents sing the “old” songs alongside her brother and sister. These moments, filled with music and family, shaped the heart of who she would become.

During her adolescent years, Melanie discovered a deep and lasting love for music. She learned to play the piano and organ, and it was then she knew she was called to teach music to others. She attended Centralia College before continuing her education at Central Washington State College, where she earned her teaching certificate. Later, she completed her Master’s degree in Creative Arts, always driven by a desire to learn and to inspire.

Melanie often credited her parents as her greatest role models, and family remained at the center of her life. Her proudest moments were the milestones she shared with those she loved—graduations, weddings, and treasured family gatherings.

A dedicated educator, Melanie taught for 34 years, primarily as an elementary school music teacher. She touched countless lives through her passion, patience, and belief in the power of music. As a teacher, she was especially drawn to Rhythm and Blues and bluegrass music, influences she joyfully shared with her students.

Among her special achievements were watching two beautiful girls grow into two remarkable women, performing as a member of the Sweet Adelines quartet, and traveling to England and Ireland to compete in music competitions. Beyond music, Melanie found joy in gardening, sewing, and creating handmade greeting cards—each one a small reflection of her creativity and care for others.

Melanie was preceded in death by her grandparents, Stephanie and Harry DeSpain and Ellen and Grove Wilcox, as well as her parents, Gordon and Margaret Wilcox.

She is survived by her devoted husband Harold Rosebrook; her siblings Claire (Steve) Murray and Jon (Karen) Wilcox. Her children Anna Villines and April (Joel) Manke and three grandchildren; James Manke (18), Joel Manke(15), and Delphia Manke(12). She also happily welcomed Harold’s large family including; Jim (Missy) Rosebrook, Karen (Troy) Shoemaker and their children, Nicole Rosebrook, Tyler (Melissa) Shoemaker, Kayle Rosebrook, Justin (Erika) Shoemaker, Chealsey Rosebrook, Colby (Courtney) Shoemaker, and 7 great grandchildren. She also left behind a host of nieces, nephews and cousins who were loved dearly.

A memorial service honoring Melanie’s life will be held on February 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Sticklin-Brown Funeral Chapel in Centralia, Washington.

Melanie Ann Rosebrook will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her unwavering love for family, and the music she carried with her always—music that continues to echo in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.