Melanie Anne Ruppert

APACHE JUNCTION - Melanie Anne Ruppert passed away November 18, 2013 in Apache Junction, at the age of 53. She was born in Mount Vernon, Ohio, January 10, 1960. Melanie graduated Fredricktown High School in 1978. She attended Cedar Valley College and became a paralegal. Melanie was very active in the American Legion and other veteran groups and attended Cornerstone Wesleyan Church. Melanie had an extended family which she loved with all her heart. Melanie is survived by her devoted husband, Steven Ruppert; her mother, Carole Newton; her brother, Jeff Newton; her daughters, Jennifer Reynolds, Cassie and Theresa Tautimez, Melissa Edgington Kristi Shaefer; sons, Chris Tautimez, Brian and Keith Ruppert; grandsons, Justin Crespo and Jason Khan; grandchildren, Santiago, Angelina, Mia, Nicole, Brit, Kim, Steph, Jake, Ashlee, Preston, Emily; and one great granddaughter. Melanie had many passions, helping many others was one. She loved riding on the back of their motorcycle, singing and dancing, weekend getaways, decorating their house, and touching the lives and hearts of so many. Melanie loved life, and in the last few years was living it and enjoying it to the fullest. Melanie is now flying with her angels and in God's hands. Memorial Celebration of her life will be 3 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 14, 2013 at American Legion Post 26, 505 W 2nd Ave, Mesa, AZ.