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Celebration of Life:
August 10th, 2024 at 2 p.m. at 22 Pebble Beach
Drive, Lincoln
Obituary
Karla Melia (Schneider) passed away
in her home, surrounded by her loving family June
20, 2024.
Karla was a cautious child who loved to dust, she
hated the doctor and dentists, but loved walking
barefoot in the grass, and taking charge. She often
reminisced about her childhood visits to a family
farm where she ran and played with her cousins.
Karla graduated from Mason City High School in 1981.
As their class president, many of her peers describe
her as a friend to everyone (as well as smart,
funny, and responsible).
Her determination did not end there, as she pursued
higher education at Illinois State University,
graduating in 1985. Karla later had a successful
career in accounting and finance where she made
friends that were like family.
Karla married Brian Melia in July of 1986, the
photographer forgot to show up; but they got the
most beautiful pictures anyway. Throughout their
marriage, they had many adventures in travel on the
Harley. Her favorite trip being the one they took in
New York.
Her first daughter Kate was born in 1986, and soon
her second daughter Kelly followed in 1989.
Karla sacrificed many things to give herself
completely to motherhood. She was an amazing wife
and daughter, yes. But she excelled (beyond measure)
at being a mother. Her daughters and her were
inseparable, often taking annual trips to see live
concerts and explore wineries. She instilled in them
a love of music, fresh air, good wine, and
conversation.
Karla often served as counsel to not
only her daughters (and friends) but to many of her
daughters’ friends as she was always willing to
listen, support, and love. Many will remember her as
being kind, understanding, patient and full of joy.
It is also true to say that many will remember her
sarcasm and witt, as she was nothing if not
balanced.
Things did not change as Karla became a grandmother.
She gave endlessly to her grandchildren (Ezra,
Annie, Duke, & Daisy) with gifts, and adventures,
and would have wished for more time had she not
become so sick. They will remember her and the love
she gave generously as well as her contagious
laughter, always. |
Karla’s beautiful soul will be
joining her father Perry, as well as her Aunt Deb,
and grandcat Elvis. She leaves behind her children,
Kate Deardorff [Ian], Kelly Kucera [Frank] and Buddy
Melia, her husband Brian Melia, her mother Linda
Schneider, her brother Kent Schneider and sister
Karrie Garrison.
Karla was a free spirit who brought joy, sunshine
and daisies to those around her. In honor of those
qualities (and her very specific wishes), her family
will be hosting a celebration of life.
Celebration of Life
August 10th, 2024
Open house at 2 p.m.
22 Pebble Beach Drive
Lincoln
Life is short. Make it sweet.
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