Melissa Marie Stengel

Melissa Marie Stengel, 44, passed away Thursday, March 13, 2025 at her home. Melissa was born on April 1, 1980. Her parents are John and Wilma Vicini.

Melissa had lived in Southern llinois her whole life. She was baptized at Church of God in Raleigh when she was younger. Melissa was always watching the weather and was an lllinois storm tracker. She enjoyed everything outdoors including camping, nature, wildlife, gardening and plants. Melissa really liked doing arts, crafts and researching family history. Helping others brought great joy to her. At Christmas time she would make tailored gift baskets for her friends and others who didn't have family around. Her love went not just to people but also to animals. She rescued animals and would get them healthy and rehome them. She also had a turtle rescue that was near and dear to her heart. She loved her sweet dogs; Cheyenne, Jack, Loki and a special tortoise named Tardis the Tortoise. Melissa was a wonderful mother, daughter, sister, friend and family member.

Melissa is survived by her significant other, Dale Stengel; two children, Sadi Stengel, Keith Stengel; parents, John and Wilma Vicini; siblings, Michael Starnes, Amanda Garrett, Trevor Daly, Traci McLaughlin; many family and friends and multiple nieces and nephews

Melissa was preceded in death by her brother, Troy Starnes Daly.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, March 18, 2025 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Sloan Funeral Home

Galatia. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, March 19, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. with a visitation from 10:00 a.m. until funeral hour. Burial will follow at Lebanon Cemetery in Galatia with Rev. Gaylon Parks officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the funeral home to help the family with funeral expenses.

Sloan Funeral Home of Galatia in charge of arrangements