Melissa Baranski

Melissa Baranski, beloved wife, cherished daughter, devoted sister, and loyal friend, passed away peacefully on March 4, 2026, at the age of 52. A resident of White Lake, Melissa was born on September 25, 1973, in Detroit, Michigan. Her life was a testament to love, compassion, and the joy of living fully.

Melissa was the treasured daughter of Paula (Jonathan) Lybeck and the late John Miller, who predeceased her. Her late grandparents, Carl and Alma Berlenbach, also held a special place in her heart.

She leaves behind her loving husband, Tom Baranski, who stood by her side as her partner and best friend. Melissa is also survived by her twin brother, Nathan Wright, and his wife, Jessica. She is also survived by her stepbrothers, Chris (Lynn) Miller and Mike (Sharon) Miller, as well as her niece and nephew, Ella and Sawyer Wright, whom she adored.

A woman of many talents and passions, Melissa owned and operated her own yoga studio for over five years. She was dedicated to her craft and found great joy in the community of yogis she nurtured at her studio.

Melissa was a sunworshipper at heart, finding serenity and happiness at any beach she visited. She cherished time spent with her friends, particularly her beloved "Girl Gang," with whom she shared countless memorable moments. She was an avid fosterer of dogs, providing them with love and care until they found their forever homes. Known for her fun-loving spirit and generous heart, Melissa made everyone she met feel valued and loved.

To honor Melissa’s life, a Memorial Visitation will be held from 2:00 PM until 7:00 PM on Wednesday, March 11, 2026 at the Union Lake Chapel of the Elton Black and Son Funeral Home, 1233 Union Lake Road, White Lake, MI 48386. A rosary service led by Fr. Socorro Fernandes will be held at 5:00 PM. The Memorial Mass will be held on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at 11:00 AM at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 9086 Hutchins Rd, White Lake, MI 48386. The family will receive visitors from 10:00 AM until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Gilda's Club, an organization dear to Melissa’s heart. Contributions can be made at the following organizations, “McLaren Oakland Foundation”, send all donations to Karmanos Institute Clarkston C/O Tina Byczinski, LMSW. 5680 Bow Pointe Dr. Ste 202 Clarkston, Michigan 48346. Donations may also be made to

www.gcmd.org/donate. Donations may also be made to the Midwest Small Breed Rescue addressed to Midwest in Care of Cindy Tewes 945. Barrington Rd. Gross Pointe Park, MI 48230.