Melissa Gardner, (Mel), 56, passed away on May 4, 2019. Melissa graduated from the University of Colorado with a degree in molecular and cellular biology. She subsequently worked for several prominent research laboratories at Coors Biotech, ASU and the Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, AZ. She obtained a master's degree in counseling from Argosy University in Phoenix and began her practice as a Clinical Counselor. A natural counselor, she soon built a robust clinical practice and a national reputation as an expert in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) counseling therapy. In 2012 Mel and her husband, Dave, moved when Dave accepted a faculty position at Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Indianapolis. Despite having to complete additional academic course work for Indiana certification and develop brand new relationships in this new environment, Mel was soon fully established in another thriving clinical practice. Never were Mel's counseling skills more evident than when she counseled others through her final journey, helping them cope with immense grief, while living out her final days with incredible strength, grace, humor and just enough counseling to keep all on course. Mel is survived by her husband, David, two daughters, her parents, three sisters, two brothers, several nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held on May 15, 2019 at 2:30 p.m. at ARN Mortuary in Zionsville, Indiana followed by a gathering to celebrate her life at 4:30 p.m. A service will also be held in Toledo, Ohio on May 23rd at 4:00 p.m. at St. Joseph's Catholic Church 104 W. Broadway St., Maumee OH 43537. Dinner to follow at Brandywine Country Club, 6904 Salisbury Road, Maumee OH 43537 The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network or to EMDR International Association . (Source: Arizona Republic)