Melonie Israelsen Toro

Arizona, on March 5, 2026.

She was 55.

Melonie was born in 1970 in Salt Lake City, Utah, the daughter of Melvin Allen Israelsen and Bonnie Lee Houston Israelsen.

A free and gentle spirit who adored sunsets, sunrises, full moons (which she always circled on her calendars), trolls and the color purple, Melonie had a childlike wonder and a zest for life throughout her brief sojourn on this planet.

In addition to her passion for drawing designs, Melonie enjoyed watching movies; learning about Native American culture and comparative religion; haunting libraries across the valley; spending time with her dear friends; playing games at Casino Arizona; and keeping tabs on her beloved Pittsburgh Steelers of the NFL.

She recently began taking writing classes and was also an avid bridge player, a hobby she picked up from her mom, with whom she was a partner for several years.

Melonie yearned for travel and aspired to do more of it this year, starting with Sedona, Arizona. Alas, her long struggles with diabetes and other chronic illnesses took their toll.

Melonie is preceded in death by her husband, George Toro; her parents; and her grandparents, Charles and Helen Houston. She is survived by four brothers and three sisters.

Travel in peace and power, Melonie. We will miss you.