Alexis Danielle Melgoza

When Alexis Danielle Melgoza walked into the room, those in her company felt a palpable energy. This was just one of many qualities Alexis had and how she impacted those around her. She was a clever and gregarious person who always sought out the finest attributes in other people. It was as if she wanted to share in all of their experiences, revel in their lives, and celebrate their discoveries. Alexis was tireless and seemed to have a boundless enthusiasm that served her well throughout her life.

      Growing up for Alexis was like one big burst of spontaneity personified. She would join in with friends and family in just about anything. This made her life quite interesting and led to what would be a wide variety of memories. Alexis was born on March 20, 1990. She first greeted the world in San Pedro, California at San Pedro Hospital. Her parents were Michael Anthony Melgoza and Gina Diaz Melgoza. As a child, Alexis used to put women's jewelry on her dad. Alexis enjoyed going to the gold mines with her dad, mom and brother Christopher. Ever since she was a baby, she loved going to the mall with her mom. Alexis loved swimming at her Nana's pool and just being outdoors. Alexis was always active spending time with her many friends and pets. She grew up in Carson and San Pedro, California. Alexis had a great sense of humor and was a natural entertainer, able to keep the people around her amused with stories, tales, and her intelligence. While some who knew Alexis might have described her as an idealist, her friends and family understood well that she was always in pursuit of life’s endless possibilities and opportunities, and she never felt a shortness of love.

      Alexis was very accepting and supportive of her family. She was perceived as the central person in her family in terms of keeping communication open between the family members. This quality, along with her quick wit, outgoing personality, and understanding of people were traits that drew the admiration of others and served Alexis well in her adult life. She was raised with one sibling Christopher. She also had a brother from her father's prior marriage, half brother Rob (deceased). Alexis and Christopher were the best of friends. There are so many stories they shared to list them all. Some of them are going to countless concerts, movies, exercising, spending thousands of hours together bonding over life. Alexis' grandparents were Toni "Nana" Weaver and Lee Weaver. Alexis enjoyed going to Disneyland, swiming and cooking with Nana and her aunt Cindy. Her Nana spent quality time teaching Alexis how to knit and crochet.

      Even as a young girl, Alexis was able to empathize and identify with many different kinds of people. This quality drew her into a diverse group of friends and acquaintances. She was intelligent and had no trouble getting along with her peers. She was almost always the first to jump in when it came to playing games or participating in other childhood activities. She enjoyed playing sports as a youngster, especially Tae-Kwon-Do and swimming. An active person, she belonged to Dolores Street School student body as president, Harbor College "Theatre Class" and "ASO". Some of her favorite hobbies were collecting insects, dance lessons, cheerleading, acting classes, piano, guitar lessons, playing with Christopher, collecting beanie babies, shopping with mom. Playing games was always fun for Alexis with some of her favorites being monopoly, any board games, cards, swimming, jump rope, roller skating and bike riding. Some of Alexis' biggest accomplishments during this time included, grammar school writing essay contest; Pride Awards (exceptional intellect and conduct).

       Growing up, some of her best friends were Daniel Kavanaugh, Andy Garcia, Elizabeth, Nancy, Stephanee Vedder, Amber Mone, Omar Diaz, Carla Gomez, Megan Redler, Ian Crichton, Gavana Rendon(Pebbles), Amber centeno, Paul Barton(Scooby), Carlos Ramirez, Trent Martinson and Ryan Fitzharris. Alexis really enjoyed a school trip to Catalina Island and a vacation to Hawaii. Alexis lived in one home since birth, a stained glass Spanish style home that resembled a castle. As a child, she developed a fondness for pets, especially her hamster Hammie, cat Tink, dog Princess, dog Crash, cat "Monster Bixby Bones" dogs Baby and Magic. Some of Alexis' mischiefs were taking her dog Crash and bringing her hamster into the movie theatre. Alexis liked going to her dad's gold mines with the family. She cherished the memories of going to Catalina Island, Hawaii and just spending time with family.

      During her high school years, Alexis responded enthusiastically to any new project and was normally in search of one adventure after another. She graduated from Angel's Gate in San Pedro in 2008. She was a very good student, and did very well in her courses. Alexis absorbed as much as she could from all of her teachers and was consistently able to tackle conceptual and abstract problems using her imagination to master her assignments. For her, school often became just an extension of playtime, thanks to her ability to turn just about anything into a game. Classmates considered Alexis a great listener, knowing that when necessary, they could go to her to discuss just about anything. Her favorite classes were Science, Oceanography and History. She belonged to the Student Body and Astronomy Club. She loved acting and community theatre productions. Alexis used to skateboard and go to the beach to swim and surf.

       For Alexis, her life was just about as busy outside of high school as it was inside. With a talent for making friends easily, Alexis was very sociable and could blend without effort into any number of different social groups. Assertive and outgoing, she was easy to know and often demonstrated a deep concern for others. She always seemed aware of what was going on with people around her and throughout her life she made many, many friends. Some of her best friends during high school were Stephanee Vedder, Tiffany, Jessica, Megan, Matt, Pebbles, Amber, Skooby, and Daniel. Alexis enjoyed beach bonfires, going to concerts,and swimming with the dolphins. When Alexis and her friends got together, they would go to San Pedro's Cliffs and many other places they really enjoyed.

      Some of Alexis' early relationships were with "Luis" Greaser, "Daniel" Skater, "Skooby" Punker Skater. Alexis enjoyed going to San Pedro Cliffs, Palos Verdes Cliffs, "Sunken City", concerts, dinner, movies. Alexis attended her prom with Matt and several other people. They looked so nice dressed up, Alexis looked beautiful and was so happy as she left the house. They came to the house first in the limo to take pictures.

     She learned about taking responsibility during this time of her life. Alexis learned the value of hard work when she worked at Urban Feet Shoe Store. Alexis' first car was a Jeep Grand Cherokee that she inherited from her mom. Alexis was also involved in the community during her high school years. Alexis also did a bit of traveling during her high school years. She went camping with her best friend Stephanee and her family at Lake Camanchu and many other lakes where she jumped from cliffs, went hiking, rode bikes and swung from trees into the lake.

       During high school, she continued to care for pets, which included her dogs Magic and Crash. Cat Whiskey. Alexis enjoyed taking her cat into a theatre to watch a movie.

      Alexis was very adaptable, a quality that helped her make the transition from high school to college with little difficulty. She did very well in college, as a result of her love of learning and the ability to tackle new theories and concepts. Alexis attended Harbor College in Harbor City, California. Alexis received her AA degree in Social Science. This love of learning and desire to take on new challenges helped her as she waded her way through all of her classes. Alexis' favorite classes were Psychology and Drama. Her favorite professors were Larry Heimgartner and Juan Baez. Alexis loved her Theatre Family (teachers and classmates) Acting in plays and movies. Life Experiences. Traveling. Alexis was a member of "ASO" co-founded "PI Delta Epsilon", which is an organization for the Equality of People's Rights. Alexis received The California Legislature Award a very prestigious award given to few for exemplary commitment to the community.

       One of the best things about being in college is that it allowed Alexis the opportunity to explore and learn beyond the classroom walls. Alexis and her classmates traveled to the State Capitol to lobby against the proposed increase in college tuition. She was interviewed by KFI radio during that time protesting the increase of college tuition with great enthusiasm

       During college she had no trouble making new friends and acquaintances. Some of her best friends during this time were Carlos Ramirez, Carrie Svicarevich, Priscilla Lefebre, Robyn Moss, (The Heathers); Martin Caracoza and Genesis Dela Cruz Conrado. Alexis enjoyed acting in skits, traveling to Sacramento and London. She was compassionate, accommodating, and quick to move into action. Alexis inspired many people to do things they thought they could never do. Even in college, Alexis continued with her love of pets, especially her dog Crash and cat Bixby. Who were both exactly like her in every way! Some of Alexis' fond memories were taking Crash from his first home. Taking him for bike rides, runs even for car rides at the beach and park.

      Alexis lived in Wilmington (actually down the street from her school) with her brother/best friend Chris and her mom Gina. Gina had a joke, she used to say to Alexis and Chris, " I'm your mother, I'm your father, I'm your sister, I'm your brother."

       Despite her heavy involvement in many areas, Alexis still managed to travel during class breaks. Alexis traveled to London and Sacramento and wanted to do much more, that was a passion of hers.

       Alexis was uplifted by new ideas. New possibilities always seemed to excite her. These were traits which made her an exceptional worker. Her first full time job was at Ono's Hawaiian BBQ. Probably the most unique or interesting job Alexis ever held was as a camp counselor and supervisor at Camp Whittle, because she truly enjoyed spending time and teaching children. Alexis was a full time student at Harbor College. Alexis worked at Ono's Hawaiian BBQ, Vons, Urban Feet, Alfredos restaurant, Denny's and as a Harbor College Intern.

       Though Alexis didn’t go out of her way to seek out personal accolades, they seemed to just naturally come to her. She received recognition from her peers for protesting against college tuition hikes in Sacramento.

      Alexis loved to have a broad variety of activities in her life, and she pursued numerous hobbies. Some of her favorite hobbies were going to concerts, music shows, shopping, bonfires, writing poetry, photography and reading. She had a knack for being able to multi-task in order to create time for all of her favorite pastimes. However, Alexis' ever-present concern for others always took precedent.

     She enjoyed many things throughout her life. When it came to food and drink, first and foremost, was Nana's cooking. She enjoyed Bonello's Pizza, Green Tea and all teas, Flamin' Cheetos, hummus and green grapes. She enjoyed reading, especially LA Weekly, Francesca Lia-Block, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Joan of Ark, Frida, Angela Davis and other inspirational people. Alexis' favorite quote was, "Two different minds, the same world, is a hell and a heaven". Alexis' favorite movies were "Fight Club", "Pocahontas", "Cry Baby", "Breakfast Club", "To Wong Foo". Her favorite T.V. shows were "True Blood" "Flight of Concords" "Big Love" "True Romance". Alexis' favorite song was "What A Wonderful World" by Louis Armstrong. She also enjoyed listening to Bob Dylan, The Misfits, Johnny Cash, The Smiths, Modest Mouse, Muse, The Doors, The Cure, Alexisonfire, Kings of Leon, Jannis Joplin. Alexis loved family, theatre, acting, dreaming, writing, experiencing life, music, creating, and helping those less fortunate.

       Alexis derived much satisfaction from participating in and watching sports. Her charisma, supportive nature, and ability to help all made perfect attributes for enjoying a great many sporting activities. Alexis enjoyed getting together with her friends to play softball and volleyball. She loved to swim at the beach and at Nana's pool.

      Alexis was a woman who was devoted to her faith. Alexis had a general faith in God. She was sympathetic and able to empathize with others and she used these qualities to the fullest while working tirelessly for her beliefs. After Alexis' Graduating from Harbor College on June 8, 2011 with her Associates Degree in Social-Science She had been accepted to Long Beach State University. Here is where she planned to continue in her studies in hopes of someday becoming an attorney. A scholarship fund has been set up in Alexis's name, and a Harbor College school bench is being errected with her name on it in her honor.

      Alexis Danielle Melgoza left us on Friday, June 3rd, 2011. She passed away in San Pedro, California. She was 21 years old. She is survived by her mother Gina Melgoza, her older brother Christopher Michael Di Biase, NaNa(Toni Lydia Weaver) Aunt Cindy Diaz.

      There was always a certain style and inventiveness to Alexis. She was a dynamic, self-expressive person who was forever looking to celebrate the endless possibilities life had to offer. She had a knack for being clever, unselfish, creative, and witty. For others, she was a joy to be around. While she was often fiercely independent, many others looked to her for inspiration, leadership, wisdom, and even courage. Alexis Danielle Melgoza was always more than willing to share life’s experiences with those she loved.

Our Dear Angel Alexis...

...You will never be forgotten and forever missed.

* * * * * * * * * *

Alexis Danielle Melgoza of Wilmington passed away Friday, June 3, 2011 at the age of 21. Born March 20, 1990 in San Pedro to Michael and Gina Melgoza.

Alexis attended Harbor College where she received an Associate of Arts Degree and was to graduate on June 8, 2011. She co-founded an organization for Equal Rights of People Without Prejudice of Race, Gender, or Orientation. Alexis had a deep passion for theater which she was actively involved in at the college. She was elected Ambassador and traveled abroad to England on behalf of the theater class. She also traveled to Sacramento to lobby against the proposed increase in college tuition. She had been accepted to Cal State University Long Beach.

Alexis’ infectious smile and laugh would light up a room. She was compassionate, kind and had a deep love for animals. Her desire to help people made her a true philanthropist. She loved music, the beach and photography. Her uniqueness and strong sense of independence set her apart from the rest. She confidently carried herself in such a way it was almost impossible not to be drawn to her. Her beautiful sense of honesty is something to be admired…. And if given more time she would have accomplished so many great things.

Alexis is survived by her mother, Gina Melgoza and fiancé Kasey Heffernan; brother and best friend Chris DiBiase; Nana, Lydia Weaver; Aunt Cindy Diaz; Uncle Dino Diaz and wife Maria; Cousin Jacqueline Diaz; Uncles Bobby, Ralph and Danny Melgoza; Aunt Rachel; and many, many friends.

A memorial will be held @ 1 p.m. Saturday, June 11, 2011 at Halverson, Stone & Myers in Torrance.

In lieu of flowers, please visit www.halversonstonemyers.com for donation information.

Arrangements under the direction of Halverson, Stone & Myers Mortuary, Torrance, CA.