McARTHUR, Melanie Anne McArthur - (August 14, 1949 - November 9, 2017) -
Melanie passed away peacefully at her home in Newcastle, in the arms of her loving husband and best friend of 47 years, Rod.
She is lovingly remembered by her daughter and three sons, Alison (Liam), Christian (Shannon), Fraser (Meg) and Nick (Sarah). She will always be remembered as an energetic and loving Nana to her grandchildren Calum, Rhys, Finn, Riley, Ella, Ronan, Aidric and Drummond, and is sadly missed by her mother Pamela, and her two brothers Peter (Julie) and Stephen.
Melanie was a beloved friend, neighbour, supporter and confidant to many - including her bridge group of over 40 years, the Gathering Grannies of the Stephen Lewis Foundation, and fellow members of the Samuel Wilmot Nature Area.
She loved to be outdoors and had a passion for hiking, playing tennis, skiing and gardening. With Rod, she travelled to 49 countries, exploring the cultures of each. Her love of animals, particularly cats, dogs, racoons and elephants, was legendary.
Melanie graduated as a registered nurse in 1970 and taught Public Health for many years. She especially loved babies and teaching prenatal classes. In the mid 90s, she went back to university and obtained a BA and Masters of Anthropology, and taught seminars at Trent University for several years.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Canadian Wildlife Federation or the World Wildlife Fund.
Visitation will be held at Newcastle Funeral Home, Newcastle on Friday, November 17th from 2 to 4pm, and 7 to 9pm.
A remembrance service will be held at St. George's Anglican Church, 250 Mill St S, Newcastle on Saturday, November 18th at 1pm.