Melissa A. Gatch

Melissa A. Gatch of Jacksonville passed away surrounded by family on Friday, July 7, 2023, at the age of 59. Melissa was born in Ithaca on September 28, 1963, a daughter to Thomas and Marie (nee Passidomo) Major and one of four children. Melissa attended Trumansburg school district where her father was athletic director and a PE Instructor. During grade school, Melissa was a member of Trumansburg’s cheerleading squad and track and field team. Melissa graduated from high school in 1981 and had ambitions to enter the medical field. She then attended the University of Buffalo (1981-1984) where she earned her nursing degree and entered the work force as a registered nurse (RN). Melissa worked for the Tompkins County Health Department as an RN and supervisory nurse for 36 years before retiring in 2020. For her involvement in the Ithaca community over 36-years and her service during COVID-19, Melissa was awarded the Town-Gown Award by Cornell University at retirement. Even after retirement, Melissa was a strong member of the community, volunteering for programs such as ‘meals on wheels’ delivering meals for seniors without access.

In her personal life, Melissa was married to James Gatch who she started dating in the 9th grade. James and Melissa were married for 37 years and have two children Amanda Robertson (Gatch) and Alex Gatch. Melissa was a loyal and loving partner to James and a caring mother to her children. She was heavily involved with her children’s schooling and sport teams, frequently baking and cooking to support events. When she wasn’t caring for others, she enjoyed running the Taughannock Falls trail with her beagle, gardening, shopping with her daughter, and spending time with her family at picnics and bonfires. Melissa’s family was always her top priority. In retirement, she spent a great deal of time with her two grandsons who brought her tremendous happiness. Melissa was full of life and joy and will be dearly missed by her family.

Melissa is survived by her husband, James Gatch; two children, Amanda (Nick) Robertson and Alex (Katie) Gatch; two grandsons, Chase and Tucker Robertson; mother, Marie Major; siblings, Valerie (Alan) Gloger, Karen (Eric) Murphy, Thomas (Beth) Major Jr., and many nieces and nephews.

A Mass will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, July 22, 2023 at St. James Catholic Church, 17 Whig Street, Trumansburg. The family asks those that would like to make a donation in Melissa’s memory to kindly consider Hospicare of Tompkins County, 172 East King Road, Ithaca, NY 14850.