Melanie Anne Dempsey

After one hell of a fight, passed away peacefully at Wellington Hospice on January 31, 2019. Melanie was welcomed in heaven by her mother, Sylvia; sister, Valerie; family and other Warriors. She is dearly missed by her sister Jackie, who walked with her on every step of her journey; her best friend Danise; her favourite puppies, Declan and Quincy; and all her wonderful friends and family.

In her short 59 years, Melanie packed as much as she could into her life. Her thirst for knowledge led her on the path to becoming a well-respected Professor at Ryerson University where both her students and colleagues looked to her as a mentor and friend.

Melanie loved to see the world and was fortunate to travel to many cities, both for work and pleasure. Jackie cherishes the many crazy adventures they shared.

After being diagnosed with Cholangiocarcinoma in 2016, Melanie’s outlook on life became even more positive. She became a Warrior and was determined to make the best of the time she had left. She did everything to find ways to stay healthy and extend her time. She was a pillar of strength and support to other Warriors as they faced their own battles. The last year was especially difficult, but Melanie kept moving forward with grace and dignity. She lived her life on her terms and did the same when the end was near.

Melanie was privileged to spend her last three weeks at Wellington Hospice. Thank you to everyone there who cared for her and made her feel loved. These are extremely special people.

A special thank you to Dr. O’Kane at Princess Margaret who was Melanie’s greatest advocate.

Private cremation has taken place. Friends will be received at the Gilbert MacIntyre & Son Funeral Home, Hart Chapel, 1099 Gordon St., Guelph, on Saturday, February 9, 2019 from 12 noon – 1 p.m. A Celebration of Melanie’s life will be held in the chapel at 1 p.m. A reception will follow in the funeral home fellowship lounge. In lieu of flowers, please make generous donations to Wellington Hospice, Princess Margaret Cancer Center or a charity of your choice. Donation cards are available at the funeral home 519-821-5077 or online at www.gilbertmacintyreandson.com