Melissa Marie Deutsch

Melissa was born to James and Cynthia (nee Fuller) Koch on June 5th, 1979, in Saginaw, Michigan. She attended Heritage High School, after which she graduated from Alma College. Upon graduation she moved to Chicago to begin work in a science lab

within the university and to begin her graduate studies at the University of Illinois in Chicago. Melissa loved learning, research, and science.

Shortly after moving to Chicago, she met her husband, Jim. Together, they continued to live in Chicago and later moved to Gurnee where they raised their three daughters, Anna, Lizzy, and Emily. Melissa enjoyed volunteering at the girl’s school, supporting the girls through their sports and activities, such as dance and soccer. Additionally, she led coordination of the Gurnee Moms club while the girls were younger.

Melissa and Jim enjoyed attending and watching sports, spending time with friends, and traveling. Over the course of their travels, they visited a number of places across the US, the Caribbean, Bora Bora, UK and Ireland, and China. They instilled this sense of

exploration and adventure within the girls as well and as a family shared many memorable trips such as traveling regularly to both Disneyland and Disney World, regular holiday trips to their favorite resort in Jamaica, enjoying as much time as possible at their home on Fripp Island (Melissa’s “Happy Place”). and their last great adventure in Maui and Big Island.

Melissa’s devotion to her family and friends, kind heart, loving nature, and demonstrated strength and toughness in addressing her battle with cancer will be so deeply missed by all who were fortunate to know her.

She is survived by her husband, Jim; daughters Anna, Lizzy, and Emily; parents James and Cynthia Koch; and loyal dog, Gilbert.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 20th from 10:30 AM until 1:30 PM at Glen Flora Country Club, 2200 N Sheridan Rd, Waukegan, IL 60087.