Melissa's life began June 6, 1967, in Watervliet, Michigan. She grew up in Covert and spent most of her lifetime in the Southwest Michigan area. Melissa loved to read especially her favorite author Laurell K. Hamilton, she enjoyed listening to music and watching Yellowstone. Melissa was a caring person, she loved to help others never seeking anything in return.

Melissa leaves behind a large loving family to cherish her memory including: her husband of 27 years Norman Christopher Hopper; a daughter Kristina Hopper; three siblings James (Jen) Latham, Joseph (Dawn) Latham, and Jason (Dawn) Latham; five step-siblings Judi (Greg) Arnt, Roger (Linda) Latham, Craig Latham, Dorothy Leas, and John (Dawn) Latham; a sister-in-law Margie Latham; and several nieces and nephews.

Melissa died Monday, January 3, 2022, at Spectrum Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids. She is preceded in death by her mom Betty Jean (Souders) Latham, her dad James Latham, her step-mom Trudy Latham, and a step-brother Robert Latham.

Funeral Services will be celebrated Monday, January 10, 2022, at 11:00 AM with visitation prior starting at 10:00 AM at Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet. Burial will follow in Watervliet Cemetery.  You are invited to leave a message of comfort for Melissa's family.