Community Remembers Melanie Mary Witte, 77, After Courageous Battle

Melanie Mary Witte, aged 77, of Stillwater, Minnesota, passed away on October 28, 2025, following a brief but courageous battle with cancer. Her passing marks the end of a life dedicated to family and community, leaving behind a legacy of love and resilience.

Born on December 27, 1947, to Elmer and Lorraine Rice in Bayport, Minnesota, Melanie was a proud graduate of Stillwater High School, class of 1965. She spent an impressive 44 years working at 3M, where she was well-respected for her dedication and work ethic.

Melanie is survived by her daughter, Shelley Leigeb, and a large extended family that includes 12 nieces, 6 nephews, and 35 great-nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, Gene Witte, as well as her parents and siblings, Sharon and George Rice, along with nephews Mark and John, and niece Michelle.

Celebration of Life Planned for November

In honor of Melanie’s life, a celebration will be held on November 9, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Bradshaw Celebration of Life Center, located at 4600 Greenhaven Drive, White Bear Lake. Attendees are invited to gather for lunch at 2:00 PM as part of the memorial tribute.

For those wishing to honor Melanie’s memory, her family requests that donations be made to the Women’s Cancer Research Foundation or the Stillwater School District’s Partnership Plan, rather than sending flowers. These contributions reflect her commitment to both health research and educational support.

Community members and family reflect on Melanie’s warm spirit and the positive impact she had on everyone around her. Her legacy will continue through the many lives she touched during her time both at work and at home.