Melinda Lee Sheets was born on December 7, 1960, in Blair, Nebraska, to Neil and Edie (Jensen) Rosenbaum. She was baptized and confirmed at Emmaus Lutheran Church in Kennard, Nebraska. She grew up in the country outside of Kennard, Nebraska, and attended school in Arlington, Nebraska not too far away.

After graduating, Melinda pursued her passion for nature and wildlife, earning a degree in Wildlife Biology from the University of Idaho. Her love for the outdoors became a lifelong career, and she dedicated 25 years to the Desoto Wildlife Refuge in Missouri Valley, Iowa, where she found joy in protecting and rescuing animals.

Melinda was blessed to become a mother to two children, Kyle and Savannah. Her love for family remained constant throughout her entire life. She adored her grandchildren and treasured every moment spent watching them play.

An adventurer at heart, Melinda found happiness in horseback riding, hiking, camping, and biking – especially when her beloved dogs could tag along. She was also a gifted yet humble artist, expressing her creativity through painting, silversmithing, and drawing.

Melinda passed away peacefully at her home in Irwin, Iowa, on March 31, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and adventure, cherished by her children, Kyle (Mackenzie) Sheets of Woodbine, IA, and Savannah (Ethan) McConnell of Irwin, IA; her five beloved grandchildren, Jadon, Bentley, Mason, Katherine, and Colt; her parents, Neil and Edie Rosenbaum of Blair, NE; her siblings, Rusty Rosenbaum of Omaha, NE, Susan (Steve) Myers of Platte City, MO, Emily Rosenbaum of Chicago, IL, and Eric Rosenbaum of Blair, NE; along with many other relatives and dear friends.

In Loving Memory of Melinda Lee Sheets

Born December 7, 1960 Blair, Nebraska ~ Died March 31, 2025 Irwin, Iowa

Irwin Services

Visitation 10-11am Thursday, April 3, 2025 Irwin United Methodist Church, Irwin, Iowa

Memorial Service 11am Thursday, April 3, 2025 Irwin United Methodist Church, Irwin, Iowa

Clergy Pastor Sue Thomas

Blair Services

Visitation 10-11am Friday, April 4, 2025 First Lutheran Church, Blair, Nebraska

Memorial Service 11am Friday, April 4, 2025 First Lutheran Church, Blair, Nebraska

Clergy Pastor Glen Thomas

Pauley Jones Funeral Homes Harlan, Iowa

~~~obituary and funeral leaflet courtesy of the Nebraska Washington County Genealogical Society. Newspaper clippings and leaflets on file in the Public Library, Blair, Nebraska ~~~

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