Melissa A. Rickard Tinkler

Melissa Ann Rickard Tinkler, 25, of Loves Park passed away Friday, June 29, 2012. She was born May 4, 1987, in Burlingame, Calif., daughter of Stephen Tinkler and Kathryn Rickard. Melissa lived at Walter Lawson Children's Home for 12 years, where she was an inspiration to many families. She was a friend to all the children and loved by everyone she touched. She enjoyed listening to all kinds of music, taking walks outside and participating in activities at Lawson's. She enthusiastically traveled in her van and was the life of the party. Survivors include parents, Stephen Tinkler and Kathryn Rickard; brother, Daniel Rickard Tinkler; aunt, Anne (Alberto) Scarabelli; and Yvonne (Richard) Finney. Predeceased by grandparents, Floyd and Helen Rickard, and George and Elizabeth Tinkler; and uncle, Gene Rickard. Our dear angel is with us in spirit. She will be remembered for her courage, her dignity and her abilities to bring love and peace into our world. Memorial service at 3 p.m. Saturday, July 7, at Sunset Funeral Home, 8800 N. Alpine Road, Machesney Park, with memorial visitation from 2 p.m. to service time. Interment in Sunset Memorial Gardens. Memorial gifts may be given to Walter Lawson Children's Home, 1820 Walter Lawson Drive, Loves Park, IL 61111. Condolences may be submitted at sunsetfhmemgardens.com.