1953-2023
Melody Anderson, lifelong resident of Rockford, Illinois, passed away on January 11, 2023 at the age of 69.
She was born to Lorraine (DeWitt) and Gerald Eppenbaugh. 50 years ago, she met her husband, Robert, and they were wed in August of 1974. Together they raised their two children, and for 34 years, owned and operated the Launderette in Rockton, Illinois.
Melody suffered from Rheumatoid Arthritis and Lupus for 35+ years but did not allow it to define who she was. She never complained and, instead, focused on others. She was an avid reader and, as a final gift, has donated her corneas so that someone else may be gifted sight.
Prior to being admitted to the hospital in mid-December, she was busy baking Christmas cookies – a family tradition! She FaceTimed on Christmas morning to watch her grandkids open their presents. She took such delight in the two of them and cherished the family vacations, and memories made, together in northern Wisconsin.
Melody is survived by her husband, Robert Anderson; daughter, Sarah (Joshua) Fritz; son, Joshua Anderson; grandchildren, Olivia and Noah Fritz; brother, Alan (Debbie) Eppenbaugh; brothers-in-law Larry (Pat) Anderson and Michael Grisanzio; and nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Russell Eppenbaugh; mother-in-law, Genevieve M. Prentice; and sister-in-law, Sally (Anderson) Grisanzio.
Per her wishes, she will be cremated with a private family interment at Sunset Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Melody’s name to the Rheumatology Research Foundation (rheumresearch.org).
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.advantagerockford.com for the Anderson family.
