Sister Michaela Melko

Sister Michaela Melko, age 82, a member of the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity, died Friday, September 17, 2021 at the Holy Family Convent, Manitowoc.

The former Stephanie Melko was born on November 13, 1938 in Steubenville, Ohio, daughter of the late Stephen M. and Stephanie S. (Kunicki) Melko. She entered the convent in 1952 and professed her vows in 1957. Sister Michaela earned a Bachelor’s Degree through Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Master of Science Degree from Catholic University, Washington, D.C.; and Ph. D. through University of Wisconsin – Madison. Sister Michaela ministered as a teacher at Catholic Memorial High School, Waukesha, Wisconsin, where she returned a few years later to serve as the Vice-Principal. She served as a member of the faculty during her many years at Silver Lake (Holy Family) College. Since 2019 she had been a resident of St. Rita Health Center, Manitowoc.

Survivors include the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity; brothers and sisters-in-law: Paul (Anne) Melko, Joseph (Mary) Melko; one sister-in-law: Jo Ann Melko Howell; and one brother-in-law: George Haysler. Nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends also survive. She was preceded in death by her parents: Stephen and Stephanie (Kunicki) Melko; one brother: Stephen Melko; and one sister: Michaelene Haysler.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, September 23, 2021 at Holy Family Convent Chapel. Officiating at the Mass will be the Rev. Placid Stroik, O.F.M. with burial to follow at the Holy Family Convent Cemetery.

The family will greet relatives and friends from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 22, 2021 at the Holy Family Convent, Manitowoc. A prayer service will be held at 7:00 p.m. at the Holy Family Convent Chapel. The visitation will continue Thursday morning from 8:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m.

Unvaccinated visitors are asked to please wear a mask in accord with the CDC guidelines.

Memorial contributions may be made to support retired Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity, in care of FSCC Retirement Fund, Holy Family Convent, 2409 S. Alverno Rd., Manitowoc, WI   54220.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family by visiting www.lakeshorefamilyfuneralhomes.com.

The Pfeffer Funeral Home, Manitowoc, is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.

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