Melanie Renee Evans

Melanie Renee Evans, 39, of Wasilla died Aug. 24, 2012.

Melanie was born Sept. 15, 1972, in Yuba City, Calif. Melanie will always be remembered for her sense of humor and goofiness as a child into her teen and adult years.

“Melanie was such a chubby, adorable baby who was always giggling,” her parents wrote.

Her cousin remembered that when Melanie was 2 years old, she chased him around the yard with a hose and was giggling the whole time.

Those who knew and loved her will forever cherish the memories of her life.

Melanie was married to Marlin Broeckel (who preceded her in death in 2006) and together they had a son, Skyler. She later met and fell in love with Jack Mantz and had a daughter, Avilon.

Melanie graduated from Charter College of Wasilla in 2012 with her CMA certificate and was excited about starting a new career.

Surviving are her parents, David and Sharon Evans of Palmer; fiancé, Jack Mantz, and daughter, Avilon Mantz, both of Wasilla; son, Skyler Broeckel of Seward; siblings, Anna Lavender of Palmer, Jason Evans of Palmer, Sherry Brosdahl of Bellville, Ill., Natalie Forbis of Seward, Nathan Evans of Chugiak and Eli Evans of Thorn Bay, along with their spouses; numerous nieces and nephews; grandmother, Wanda Freese of Creswell, Ore.; and numerous cousins, extended family and friends throughout Alaska and the Lower 48.

Preceding her in death was her grandparents, Floyd and Della Evans of Bend, Ore.; her beloved uncle, Wesley Samples of Kent, Wash.; and Marlin Broeckel of Las Vegas, Nev.

The family will have a private service and viewing. Flowers and cards may be sent to Evans Family, c/o Kehl’s Palmer Chapel, 209 S. Alaska St., Palmer, AK 99664.