April Ruth Murdock (Mello)

April Ruth Mello / Murdock, age 77, of Rolla, MO, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 23, 2024.

Born on October 24, 1946, in Portland, Maine.  April was the daughter of Frank Herman Mello (of Belfast, Maine) and Gloria Ruth Owens (of Staten Island, New York.

April wrote her accomplishments as follows: Graduated high school, acting trophy from Brunswick high school in Brunswick, Maine and New England cast of 13’- Graduated Magna Cum Laude in 2002 with a masters degree in clinical counseling and a bachelor's degree in criminal justice. She raised 8 wonderful children. She was known for achieving notation in the “Who’s Who in American Colleges” andbecoming a member of the Student Psychological Association in 1997 .

April touched the lives of many with her kindness and passion for giving.

April had a knack for making even the mundane moments extraordinary. Whether it was her infamous "secret recipe" for meatloaf that suspiciously tasted like the diner’s special down the street, or her creative knitting of blankets, 

April knew how to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Her quick wit and playful sense of humor made every family gathering a memorable one.

Though she may no longer walk beside us, April’s spirit remains in the rustling leaves, the blooming flowers, and the gentle breezes. She lives on in our hearts, guiding us with her enduring love and wisdom. As she always said, "Life's too short to be serious all the time. If you can't laugh at yourself, call me—I’ll laugh at you."

She is survived by her Children, Karen Lee, Bruce Craig Jr (Carol), Michael Paul, Christopher Baird, Regis Charles, Matthew Allen (Tamara) and Victor David (Adrienne) along with 19 grandchildren.

April was preceded in death by her daughter Shari Ann Murdock.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 17, 2024, at 1PM at the Rolla Senior Apartments, located at 1101 McCutchen Rd. Rolla, MO 65401.