Melissa Ann Bodenhamer, age 59, of Raymore, passed away Friday, August 25, 2023, at St. Luke's Hospice House in Kansas City after a two-year battle when her breast cancer returned.

She was born January 15, 1964, in Windsor, MO, the daughter of Raymond Ralph and Janice Sue (Elliott) Rice.

On May 30, 1987, she and Rusty Bodenhamer were united in marriage in Warrensburg, MO.

Melissa loved her job and was a dedicated employee of Teague Lumber Company where she worked as a lumber buyer until the day she became too sick to work.

There was nothing she loved more than her family and friends, and that was evident throughout her life.  She was a proud mother that never missed her children's events and was willing to drop anything to help them, spend quality time with them, or answer their calls.  In her free time, she enjoyed traveling, spending time at the lake, gardening, organizing, and being with the people she loved.

Melissa is survived by her husband, Rusty Bodenhamer; her children, Blake (Devon) Bodenhamer and Bobbi (Joe) Ganaden; and her grandson, Owen Bodenhamer.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday September 16th from 4-8pm at Centerview Events Center in Raymore, MO (227 Municipal Circle Raymore, MO).

In lieu of flowers, Melissa requested donations be made to Dr. Pluard or the St. Luke's of Kansas City Chemo and Infusion Center.  This can be done by going to saintlukesgiving.org.  Click 'Donate'.  On the donation page, select 'Gift Designation' as other, and in the 'Other Gift Designation' box type Dr. Pluard of St. Lukes's of Kansas City cancer research OR St. Luke's Hospital of Kansas City Chemo and Infusion Center.